set_scan_mode · mcpXL30 MCP: Risk & Policy

WHAT IT DOES

What set_scan_mode does on mcpXL30

AI agents use set_scan_mode to create or update resources in mcpXL30 — usually the action step of a workflow, after the agent has gathered context. Every call changes real data in your mcpXL30 environment.

WHY IT NEEDS A POLICY

Why set_scan_mode needs a policy

This tool modifies the microscope's scan mode setting, which is a reversible configuration change (it can be switched back). It does not delete data, execute arbitrary code, or involve financial transactions. However, changing the scan mode on a scientific instrument mid-session could affect ongoing experiments or imaging quality, giving it a medium severity if misused.

From the tool's definition Switch the XL30 scan mode

Attacks that exploit this kind of access

Recommended rule Ready

Verdict

set_scan_mode Rate-limited

set_scan_mode 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": {
    "set_scan_mode": {
      "limits": [
        {
          "counter": "set_scan_mode_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 mcpXL30, so you can run agents against it safely.

FAQ

Questions about set_scan_mode

What does the set_scan_mode tool do? +

Switch the XL30 scan mode. It is categorised as a Write tool in the mcpXL30 MCP Server, which means it can create or modify data. Consider rate limits to prevent runaway writes.

How do I enforce a policy on set_scan_mode? +

Register the mcpXL30 MCP server in PolicyLayer and add a rule for set_scan_mode: 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 mcpXL30. Nothing to install.

What risk level is set_scan_mode? +

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

Can I rate-limit set_scan_mode? +

Yes. Add a rate_limit block to the set_scan_mode 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 set_scan_mode completely? +

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

set_scan_mode is provided by the mcpXL30 MCP server (tspspi/mcpxl30). PolicyLayer sits as a proxy in front of this server to enforce policies before tool calls reach the server.