MCP Server Supply Chain Is Runtime Supply Chain: Tool Manifests Need Policy and Evidence

The text explores the evolving concept of the MCP (Model Context Protocol) server supply chain and its implications for software security, emphasizing that MCP servers operate as part of a dynamic runtime supply chain rather than a static one. This approach requires continuous runtime authorization and governance, as opposed to traditional software supply chain controls that freeze dependencies at build or deployment time. It emphasizes the importance of treating tool manifests as security-relevant inputs rather than mere documentation, as changes in tool descriptions can affect authorization outcomes. The text also discusses the need for thorough security reviews of MCP servers across several dimensions, including source, manifest, host permissions, and dependencies, and highlights the necessity of maintaining detailed audit evidence for effective incident response. It advocates for a closed governance loop to ensure zero standing permissions, aligning with OWASP guidelines for agentic applications, and underscores the importance of both supply-chain scanning and runtime tool authorization to mitigate risks.

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