FIX LEAKED API KEYS
A practical freeCodeCamp guide that walks developers through what to do when an API key ends up in a Git repository — and how to prevent the same mistake from happening again.
Inside the Guide
Why Read It?
API keys are meant to authenticate applications and services — not to become permanent residents of public repositories. This guide turns a stressful Git mistake into a clear, practical security workflow you can follow.
Act Quickly
Focus on the immediate response when a credential has been exposed.
Rotate Secrets
Understand why replacing a leaked credential is central to recovery.
Understand Git
Learn how repository history changes the way you should think about leaked secrets.
Prevent Recurrence
Build safer development habits so credentials stay out of source control.
What You’ll Take Away
Credential Recovery
A practical way to think through the first response after discovering a leaked API key.
Git Security
Understand the difference between removing a secret from a file and dealing with its presence in Git history.
Safer Code
Learn development practices that keep credentials separate from code and repositories.
Future Prevention
Turn one security incident into a repeatable process for protecting secrets going forward.
Who Should Read This?
Developers
Working with APIs and Git repositories
Build safer development habits
Git Users
Anyone who commits source code
Learn what happens after a secret leaks
API Builders
Students, hobbyists, and professionals
Protect service credentials
Learners
Anyone wanting practical security knowledge
Follow a real developer-focused scenario