AI agents call get_pin_positions to retrieve information from Kicad without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
This tool retrieves geometric data (pin coordinates) from an existing PCB component layout. It performs a query operation with no side effects—it does not modify, delete, or execute any design changes. The addition of 'accounts for rotation/mirror' further confirms it is a calculation/retrieval utility. No AI misuse via this tool could cause data loss, destruction, or unintended modifications.
From the tool's definition Tool name 'get_pin_positions' and description 'Get absolute pin positions for a placed component' indicate data retrieval with no modification. The verb 'get' and the informational nature (returning positional coordinates) confirm read-only access.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Get absolute pin positions for a placed component (accounts for rotation/mirror). It is categorised as a Read tool in the Kicad MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Kicad MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for get_pin_positions: allow, deny, rate-limit, or require approval. Point your MCP client at the PolicyLayer proxy URL and the rule is enforced on every call, before it reaches Kicad. Nothing to install.
get_pin_positions is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.
Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the get_pin_positions rule in your PolicyLayer policy. For example, setting max: 10 and window: 60 limits the tool to 10 calls per minute. Rate limits are tracked per agent session and reset automatically.
Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for get_pin_positions. The AI agent will receive a policy violation error and cannot call the tool. You can also include a reason field to explain why the tool is blocked.
get_pin_positions is provided by the Kicad MCP server (productofamerica/mcp-server-kicad). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.
Every MCP server has a record like this.
Type a name, get the same breakdown: verified identity, auth posture, risk grade, capabilities, recommended policy.
Teams ship this data inside their own products. See what a licence covers →