Unlocking Vibe Coding: How Innovation Brings New Security Challenges

Large language models (LLMs) are revolutionizing how applications are built, enabling even those without traditional coding backgrounds to create functional apps using natural language prompts. Platforms like Lovable have dramatically lowered the barrier to entry. However, this rapid innovation brings with it a wave of systemic security challenges, as recent research from Wiz highlights.

The Four Biggest Security Risks in Vibe-Coded Apps

• Client-Side Authentication Logic
  Many apps developed through vibe coding handle authentication entirely in the browser. By embedding passwords and logic directly in JavaScript, confidential information becomes vulnerable to anyone inspecting the code. This makes it simple for attackers to bypass security measures and gain unauthorized access.
  
  
• Exposed API Keys and Secrets
  It’s common for API keys, meant to be kept private on the backend, to be hardcoded into client-side code. This oversight allows malicious actors to exploit these keys, potentially abusing third-party services or accessing sensitive data. Services like OpenAI and Supabase are particularly at risk when credentials are visible in the browser.
  
  
• Weak Database Security Controls
  Vibe coding tools make it easy to connect to databases like Supabase, but developers often skip or misconfigure essential security features such as Row-Level Security (RLS). Without proper controls, sensitive data may be left exposed to the public, enabling attackers to probe and extract information using accessible API keys.
  
  
• Internal Apps Accidentally Public
  The rapid deployment enabled by vibe coding sometimes results in internal dashboards or admin tools being left open to the public web. Attackers can discover these apps with relative ease, exposing proprietary data or internal communications that were never intended to be public.

How to Secure Vibe-Coded Applications

• Enforce Server-Side Authentication
  Authentication and authorization should always be managed on the backend. Use established systems like OAuth or Cognito, and treat all client-side code as if it were visible to everyone. Never embed secrets in frontend code.
  
  
• Proxy API Requests Securely
  Store all API keys and sensitive credentials on the backend only. Route requests to third-party services through secure server-side functions to ensure secrets never reach the browser.
  
  
• Deny-By-Default Data Access
  Set database permissions to deny access by default and only grant access as strictly needed. Implement and regularly test Row-Level Security policies, making sure each database query is filtered by user or role. Always follow platform security best practices to avoid accidental data exposure.
  
  
• Audit and Protect Internal Tools
  Maintain an inventory of all vibe-coded apps within your organization. Require strong authentication for any application handling sensitive data, and limit which apps are accessible from outside your organization. Regular reviews can help prevent accidental public exposure.

The Role of Collaboration in Security

Recognizing threats is just the beginning. Wiz works with platforms like Lovable to raise awareness and promote secure development standards. By sharing research and developing best practices, they aim to help developers build safer apps from the start.

Building Securely in the Age of Vibe Coding

Vibe coding marks an exciting shift in application development, but with greater accessibility comes greater responsibility. Addressing client-side authentication flaws, exposed secrets, weak data policies, and public internal apps can significantly reduce security risks. By adopting proven best practices and fostering collaboration between platforms and researchers, organizations can safely realize the potential of this new development model.

Source: Wiz Blog