Security Essentials
Verify every line. AI generates vulnerabilities. Learn how to review and protect your POC.
AI-Generated Vulnerabilities
Here's an uncomfortable truth: AI will generate insecure code. Not because it's malicious, but because security isn't its default priority.
I've seen AI-generated code that:
- Hardcodes API keys in source files
- Uses SQL queries vulnerable to injection
- Skips input validation
- Logs sensitive information
Every piece of AI-generated code needs human review. Especially anything handling authentication, payments, or user data.
The Security Checklist
Before deploying, check these:
- No hardcoded secrets: All API keys, passwords in environment variables
- Input validation: Never trust user input. Validate everything.
- HTTPS only: No exceptions. Free with Let's Encrypt.
- Rate limiting: Protect against abuse and runaway costs.
Environment Variables
Your .env file should contain all secrets. Your .gitignore should exclude it. Simple rule:
If it's secret, it goes in .env. If it's in .env, it's in .gitignore.
Create a .env.example file with placeholder values. This documents what environment variables are needed without exposing actual secrets.
AI generates vulnerabilities. Review every line, especially security-critical code.
Secrets in .env only. Never hardcode API keys or passwords.
Validate all input. Never trust user-provided data.
HTTPS everywhere. No exceptions, even for POCs.