switch_dicom_node · Simple Dicom MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What switch_dicom_node does on Simple Dicom

AI agents use switch_dicom_node to create or update resources in Simple Dicom — usually the action step of a workflow, after the agent has gathered context. Every call changes real data in your Simple Dicom environment.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why switch_dicom_node needs a policy

The name implies modifying the active connection target (switching which DICOM node/server is being used), which is a configuration change — a Write-level action. However, the description is empty, so confidence is low. It could also be merely selecting a read context.

From the tool's definition Tool name 'switch_dicom_node' with empty description. The name suggests changing/switching the active DICOM node configuration.

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

switch_dicom_node Rate-limited

switch_dicom_node stays usable, but capped — an agent stuck in a loop can't make hundreds of changes a minute. Everything else on the server is denied unless you say otherwise.

View as policy code

policy.json

{
  "version": "1",
  "default": "deny",
  "tools": {
    "switch_dicom_node": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "switch_dicom_node_rate",
          "window": "minute",
          "max": 30,
          "scope": "grant"
        }
      ]
    }
  }
}

LIMIT THIS TOOL →

Instant setup, no code required.

PolicyLayer is an MCP gateway: every tool call is checked against your rule before it reaches Simple Dicom, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about switch_dicom_node

What does the switch_dicom_node tool do? +

switch_dicom_node. It is categorised as a Write tool in the Simple Dicom MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on switch_dicom_node? +

Register the Simple Dicom MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for switch_dicom_node: 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.

What risk level is switch_dicom_node? +

switch_dicom_node is a Write tool with medium risk. Write tools should be rate-limited to prevent accidental bulk modifications.

Can I rate-limit switch_dicom_node? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the switch_dicom_node 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.

How do I block switch_dicom_node completely? +

Set action: deny in the PolicyLayer policy for switch_dicom_node. 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 switch_dicom_node? +

switch_dicom_node 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.