@theaiconsultinglab: AI coding mistake that could cost you $$$: Storing API keys directly in GitHub. I see people getting into AI development making this mistake all the time. Here's what to do instead: → Create a .env file (tell your agent to build this) → Store all API keys there → Keep it OUT of your GitHub repo → Set up environment variables in your hosting platform → Your code pulls from those variables, not the codebase This protects your API keys and payment methods with an extra layer of security. It won't stop every attack—hackers have AI tools too—but it's the bare minimum to keep yourself safe. Start with good practices from day one. Are you protecting your API keys properly? #ai #coding #chatgpt #aiconsulting #github