MCP Server Security
MCP (Model Context Protocol) server security involves protecting the servers that provide tools and context to AI agents. As AI assistants gain access to external systems through MCP, securing these integration points becomes critical.
What is MCP?
The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is a standard created by Anthropic that allows AI assistants like Claude to interact with external tools and data sources. MCP servers expose capabilities like:
- File system access (reading and writing files)
- Database queries (PostgreSQL, SQLite, etc.)
- API integrations (GitHub, Slack, Jira)
- Browser automation (Puppeteer, Playwright)
- Code execution environments
Security Risks in MCP Servers
1. Tool Poisoning
Malicious or poorly designed tool descriptions can manipulate AI agent behavior. If a tool's description contains hidden instructions, the AI may execute unintended actions.
2. Confused Deputy Attacks
An MCP server can be tricked into performing privileged actions on behalf of an attacker. The AI agent acts as the "confused deputy" - executing requests it believes are legitimate but are actually malicious.
3. Data Exfiltration
MCP servers with broad access permissions can leak sensitive data. Without proper scoping, an agent could access and transmit confidential information.
4. Privilege Escalation
Chaining multiple MCP tools together can lead to privilege escalation. An attacker might use a low-privilege tool to gain access to a high-privilege one.
Key Security Considerations
Input Validation
Ensure all tool inputs are validated before execution. Never trust data from AI responses without sanitization.
Permission Scoping
Limit MCP server permissions to the minimum required. A file server should not have network access.
Tool Description Audit
Review tool descriptions for hidden instructions or manipulation attempts before installation.
Action Logging
Log all MCP tool invocations for audit trails. Monitor for unusual patterns or unauthorized access.
How Inkog Audits MCP Servers
Inkog is the only security scanner that audits MCP servers before installation. It analyzes: