List all tables in the current database
AI agents call mysql_list_tables to retrieve information from MySQL Database Server without modifying anything — typically the context-gathering step in research, monitoring, and reporting workflows, before the agent takes action elsewhere.
This tool performs a read-only operation (listing table names/metadata) with no side effects. It is analogous to SHOW TABLES in MySQL, which is a safe informational query. The blast radius if misused is minimal—an attacker gains knowledge of database schema but cannot read data, modify records, or cause destructive changes. This aligns with the 'Read' category for retrieval and query operations.
From the tool's definition Tool name 'mysql_list_tables' and description 'List all tables in the current database' indicate a query operation that retrieves metadata about database structure without modifying any data.
Attacks that exploit this kind of access
List all tables in the current database. It is categorised as a Read tool in the MySQL Database Server MCP Server, which means it retrieves data without modifying state.
Register the MySQL Database Server MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for mysql_list_tables: 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 MySQL Database Server. Nothing to install.
mysql_list_tables 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 mysql_list_tables 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 mysql_list_tables. 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.
mysql_list_tables is provided by the MySQL Database Server MCP server (thebusted/mcp-mysql-server). 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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