🔒 Security Fix: Remove Exposed GCP Private Key from Configuration

[ana-ai-sde]

Security Vulnerability Fix

Issue: Exposed GCP Private Key in Source Code
Severity: High
CVSS Score: 8.8
Fixed by: Ana Security Bot

🔍 Vulnerability Details

A Google Cloud Platform (GCP) private key was discovered hardcoded in the configuration file. This poses a significant security risk as it could allow unauthorized access to GCP resources and services.

🛠️ Changes Made

• ✅ Removed hardcoded private key from config.py
• ✅ Implemented secure credential management system
• ✅ Updated configuration to use environment variables
• ✅ Added credential validation checks
• ✅ Enhanced security documentation

📁 Files Modified

• config.py - Removed exposed credentials, implemented secure config
• requirements.txt - Updated dependencies for secure credential management
• main.py - Updated credential handling logic

🔒 Security Impact

• Before: GCP private key exposed in source code
• After: Credentials securely managed via environment variables
• Risk Reduction: Eliminates risk of credential exposure in source code

🚨 Required Actions

1. Immediately rotate the exposed GCP service account key
2. Update deployment environments with new credentials
3. Verify no unauthorized access occurred
4. Review audit logs for suspicious activity

🧪 Testing Recommendations

• Verify application functionality with new credential management
• Test GCP service authentication
• Confirm environment variable configuration
• Validate credential rotation process
• Run security scans to verify no remaining exposed keys

🔐 Security Best Practices

1. Never commit credentials to source code
2. Use secure credential management systems
3. Implement regular key rotation
4. Monitor for unauthorized access
5. Use principle of least privilege for service accounts

📚 References

• Google Cloud Key Management Best Practices
• OWASP Secrets Management Guide
• Secure Environment Variable Usage

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⚠️ Security Note: If this private key was ever committed to a public repository, consider it compromised and rotate it immediately.

This PR was automatically generated by Ana Security Bot