[b]"How Do I Securely Manage My Application Programming Interface Key?"[/b] or [b]"What’s the Best Way to Protect

"Where Should I Store My Application Programming Interface Key to Avoid Exposure?"

Hey folks! So I’ve got this app I’m working on, and I’m using an application programming interface key to connect to some services.

But I’m kinda paranoid about leaking it. Like, where’s the safest place to stash it?

I’ve heard env variables are good, but what if someone gets access to my server?

Also, is it dumb to hardcode it (lol pls don’t roast me)?

Any tips or horror stories? Thx!

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*(Word count: ~80)*

P.S. If y’all have better ideas than .env files, lmk!