Why deleting the file is not enough
Git keeps previous versions. Once a secret has been committed, you must first assume it may have been copied, revoke it with the provider, create a new credential and then check where it is used. Cleaning the history without rotation leaves the main risk intact.
- Revoke or disable the compromised credential
- Create a replacement secret with minimal permissions
- Update the secrets manager and deployments
- Clean the history if needed and add a pre-commit check
Results handled with care
A security report must not become a new source of leaks. Detected values are reduced to the strict minimum needed for identification, and reports are encrypted. Avoid copying a full key into a ticket or an external analysis tool.
Preventing recurrence
A lasting fix combines a secrets manager, minimal permissions, the ability to rotate and checks before push. A recurring analysis complements these measures by catching a regression that slipped through the cracks.