AI agents call list_pcb_layers 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 queries and returns information about PCB layer configuration. It retrieves existing data without modifying, deleting, or executing any operations. The 'list' verb and read-only nature of querying layer definitions clearly place this in the Read category with low severity.
From the tool's definition Tool name 'list_pcb_layers' and description 'List all layers defined in the PCB stackup' indicate data retrieval with no modification capability.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
List all layers defined in the PCB stackup. 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 list_pcb_layers: 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.
list_pcb_layers 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 list_pcb_layers 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 list_pcb_layers. 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.
list_pcb_layers 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.
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