Securing MCP requires a multi-layered approach:

Authentication & Authorization

• Implement strong authentication for all MCP endpoints
• Apply principle of least privilege to tool access
• Use scoped tokens with limited lifetimes
• Consider OAuth 2.0 flows for service-to-service communication

Prompt Injection Protection

1. Validate tool descriptions and instructions for hidden directives
2. Consider a trusted registry of approved MCP servers
3. Implement content filtering on model outputs
4. Use detection systems for anomalous patterns

Additional Security Controls

• Audit Logging: Record all MCP interactions for traceability
• Rate Limiting: Prevent abuse through request throttling
• Approval Workflows: Require human verification for sensitive operations
• Sandboxing: Isolate MCP servers in contained environments
• Network Controls: Restrict communication paths between components

"Security by design is essential: each MCP server should be treated as a potential attack vector requiring appropriate controls."