AI agents call read_files to retrieve information from Kontexta without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
This tool retrieves file contents without any side effects. It is a pure data retrieval operation that queries existing files by ID and returns their contents. There is no capability to modify, delete, execute, or move money. The batch nature and file limit do not elevate the risk beyond Read category.
From the tool's definition Tool name is 'read_files' and description states 'Batch read up to 200 files by ID in one call. Returns per-file annotated records, an aggregate' — explicit read operation with no modification, deletion, or execution capability.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
Batch read up to 200 files by ID in one call. Returns per-file annotated records, an aggregate. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Kontexta MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Kontexta MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for read_files: 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 Kontexta. Nothing to install.
read_files 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 read_files 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 read_files. 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.
read_files is provided by the Kontexta MCP server (safiyu/kontexta). 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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