The API key hiding in plain sight

The scenario:

• The code works. The API key is hardcoded. The repo is public.

  
  

• Secrets in source code are one of the most common - and most preventable - security failures. Developers hardcode API keys, database credentials, and tokens for convenience during development. Then they forget to remove them. The code gets committed, pushed, and sometimes made public. Automated scanners find these secrets within minutes.

  
  

• The damage isn't theoretical. Attackers use exposed AWS keys to spin up crypto miners. They use database credentials to exfiltrate customer data. They use API tokens to access payment systems. One commit, one oversight, massive breach.

  
  

• Prevent secrets exposure by implementing pre-commit hooks that scan for credentials before code is pushed. Use secrets management tools instead of environment variables or config files. Rotate any credential that may have been exposed - assume it's compromised. Audit public repositories for historical exposure using tools like truffleHog or GitLeaks.

  
  

• This attack vector exists entirely in development workflows - invisible to endpoint and network security. Detection requires monitoring code repositories and cloud API usage patterns for anomalies.