query_instances
AI agents call query_instances to retrieve information from Simple Dicom without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
The tool name 'query_instances' and its context within a DICOM querying suite strongly suggests it retrieves medical imaging instance data. While the description is empty (lowering confidence slightly), the sibling tools and server purpose leave little doubt this is a Read operation.
From the tool's definition Tool is part of a DICOM server query system alongside query_patients, query_series, and query_studies, all of which are Read operations.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
query_instances. It is categorised as a Read tool in the Simple Dicom MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the Simple Dicom MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for query_instances: 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 Simple Dicom. Nothing to install.
query_instances 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 query_instances 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 query_instances. 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.
query_instances is provided by the Simple Dicom MCP server (thalesmms/simple-dicom-mcp). 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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