Do not store sensitive data in environment variables and .ENV files

In the article about application security, the author discusses the issue of storing secrets in environment variables. While using environment variables might seem like a secure practice at first glance, it comes with significant risks. Examples of data leak cases demonstrate that applications can be vulnerable to attacks, especially when variables are mishandled or inadequately secured. Notable incidents of data exposure highlight the need for alternative methods for secret management. The author suggests solutions such as using secret managers that provide stronger protections than traditional environment variables.