Your API key probably already leaked (check in 5 minutes)

git log -p | grep "sk-". If that command returns anything, your key is in your Git history. This 20-minute checklist can save you from a surprise bill.

A leaked API key is an open credit card — someone can burn your balance in hours. And the most common leak isn't a hack: it's the developer.

The 4 most common mistakes:

1. Key in frontend code — anyone can open DevTools and copy it. Calls to AI providers must come from the backend, period.
2. Key committed to Git — git log -p | grep "sk-". Use .gitignore, secret scanners (gitleaks/trufflehog), and rotate the key now.
3. Key in unprotected env vars — env vars are the minimum, not security. Use a secret manager and least-privilege keys.
4. No spending limit — set a cost ceiling on the provider/gateway so a leak has limited damage.

Quick checklist:

• No keys in frontend code
• .env in .gitignore
• Keys rotated if ever exposed
• Spending limit configured
• Access audited

Key security is 20 minutes of work that prevents a nasty surprise bill.

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