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badchars

mcp-security-scanner

by badchars

rt_check_unicode_steganography

Detects hidden Unicode characters in tool descriptions, such as zero-width spaces and homoglyphs, which can conceal instructions visible to LLMs but not to humans.

Instructions

Detect hidden Unicode characters in tool descriptions: zero-width spaces, zero-width joiners, word joiners, RTL/LTR override, BOM, invisible separators, homoglyph characters. These can hide instructions visible to LLM but invisible to humans.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
commandYesServer command to execute (e.g. 'node', 'bun', 'npx')
argsNoCommand arguments (e.g. ['run', 'server.js'])
envNoAdditional environment variables
timeout_msNoConnection timeout in milliseconds (default: 30000)
Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations provided, so the description carries full burden. It mentions detection of specific characters and their malicious use, but doesn't elaborate on output, side effects, or read-only nature.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Two sentences, front-loaded with the main action and supported by examples. Efficient and to the point, though could be slightly more structured.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness1/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

The description completely ignores the input schema parameters (command, args, env, timeout_ms), which are about command execution, not direct detection. No output schema or return value description is provided, leaving the tool's behavior largely unexplained.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema coverage is 100%, parameters are fully described in the schema. The description adds no additional parameter info beyond what the schema already provides.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool detects hidden Unicode characters in tool descriptions, listing many specific character types. It distinguishes from siblings focused on other security checks.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description implies use for detecting steganography in tool descriptions but lacks explicit guidance on when to use vs alternatives or when not to use.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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