Low Risk

vector_search

Search by meaning. Finds relevant documents even when they use different words than the query — handles synonyms, paraphrases, and related concepts.

Accepts freeform code/query input (query)

Part of the Qmd MCP server. Enforce policies on this tool with Intercept, the open-source MCP proxy.

qmd Read Risk 2/5

AI agents call vector_search to retrieve information from Qmd without modifying any data. This is common in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows where the agent needs context before taking action. Because read operations don't change state, they are generally safe to allow without restrictions -- but you may still want rate limits to control API costs.

Even though vector_search only reads data, uncontrolled read access can leak sensitive information or rack up API costs. An agent caught in a retry loop could make thousands of calls per minute. A rate limit gives you a safety net without blocking legitimate use.

Read-only tools are safe to allow by default. No rate limit needed unless you want to control costs.

qmd.yaml
tools:
  vector_search:
    rules:
      - action: allow

See the full Qmd policy for all 6 tools.

Tool Name vector_search
Category Read
MCP Server Qmd MCP Server
Risk Level Low

Agents calling read-class tools like vector_search have been implicated in these attack patterns. Read the full case and prevention policy for each:

Browse the full MCP Attack Database →

Other tools in the Read risk category across the catalogue. The same policy patterns (rate-limit, allow) apply to each.

What does the vector_search tool do? +

Search by meaning. Finds relevant documents even when they use different words than the query — handles synonyms, paraphrases, and related concepts.. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Qmd MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.

How do I enforce a policy on vector_search? +

Add a rule in your Intercept YAML policy under the tools section for vector_search. You can allow, deny, rate-limit, or validate arguments. Then run Intercept as a proxy in front of the Qmd MCP server.

What risk level is vector_search? +

vector_search is a Read tool with low risk. Read-only tools are generally safe to allow by default.

Can I rate-limit vector_search? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the vector_search rule in your Intercept 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.

How do I block vector_search completely? +

Set action: deny in the Intercept policy for vector_search. 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.

What MCP server provides vector_search? +

vector_search is provided by the Qmd MCP server (qmd). Intercept sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.

Enforce policies on Qmd

Open source. One binary. Zero dependencies.

npx -y @policylayer/intercept
github.com/policylayer/intercept →
// GET IN TOUCH

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