~ You'll complete this guide in 8 minutes
TL;DR
Your security journey has five steps: understand the risks, scan your app, fix critical issues, secure your database, and maintain ongoing protection. Each step builds on the previous one. Start with a scan to know where you stand, then work through fixes by priority. Most vibe-coded apps can be secured in an afternoon.
CheckYourVibe defines app security for vibe coders as the practice of protecting your AI-built application and its users from unauthorized access, data breaches, and exploitation. Security doesn't require expertise. It requires understanding the basics, using the right tools, and following a clear path from vulnerable to protected.
This guide is the entry point for 10,000+ founders securing their first vibe-coded app.
Your Learning Path
Start Here
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Why Security Matters
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First Scan
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Quick Wins
Welcome to Your Security Journey
If you're reading this, you've built something with AI tools and you want to make sure it's secure. That's already a great start. CheckYourVibe data shows that 87% of vibe-coded apps have at least one critical security issue, most vibe coders don't think about security until something goes wrong.
This guide is your roadmap. We'll take you from wherever you are now to confidently shipping secure applications. You don't need a security background. You don't need to become an expert. You just need to follow the path.
The Five-Step Security Path
Understand Why This Matters
Before diving into fixes, understand what's at stake. AI tools build fast but not secure. Your users trust you with their data.
Read: Why Security Matters for Vibe Coders → 5 min read
Run Your First Scan
You can't fix what you don't know is broken. A security scan gives you a clear picture of your app's current state.
Read: Your First Security Scan → 10 min to complete
Fix Critical Issues First
Focus on what matters most. Critical issues are things that can be exploited right now. Usually this means exposed API keys and missing database security.
Read: 5-Minute Security Quick Wins → 30-60 min to fix
Secure Your Database
If you're using Supabase, Firebase, or any database, make sure unauthorized users can't access data. Row Level Security (RLS) is the most important configuration.
Read: How to Set Up Supabase RLS → 30 min to implement
Maintain Ongoing Security
Security isn't a one-time task. Set up regular scans, review code before deploying, and stay updated on new threats.
Read: Developing a Security Mindset → Ongoing
Choose Your Path
Not everyone starts from the same place. Here's where to focus based on your situation:
I just built something and want to make sure it's safe
- Start with a free security scan
- Read Understanding Your Scan Results
- Fix issues starting with critical severity
I'm about to launch and need a security check
- Use our Pre-Launch Security Checklist
- Run a scan to verify everything
- Review You Shipped an App. Now What?
I'm new to all of this and feeling overwhelmed
- Read What is Vibe Coding? first
- Then Why Security Matters
- Start with 5-Minute Quick Wins
Essential Resources
Common Security Mistakes
The errors we see in almost every vibe-coded app. Know what to avoid.
Essential
Security Glossary
Plain-English definitions of security terms you'll encounter.
Reference
AI Code Review Checklist
What to look for when reviewing AI-generated code.
Checklist
How to Secure API Keys
Step-by-step guide to protecting your secrets.
Tutorial
Don't try to learn everything at once. Security is a journey, not a destination. Focus on the basics first. As you build more, you'll naturally learn more. The goal is progress, not perfection.
Where should I start with app security?
Start with a security scan to understand your current state. Then focus on the basics: move secrets to environment variables, enable database security (RLS), and add authentication to sensitive endpoints. These three steps prevent most common attacks on vibe-coded apps.
How long does it take to secure a vibe-coded app?
Basic security typically takes 2-4 hours for a new app. Running a scan takes minutes. Fixing common issues like exposed secrets and missing RLS takes 30-60 minutes each. More complex issues like proper authentication may take longer depending on your app's complexity.
Do I need to be a security expert?
No. You don't need deep security expertise to build secure apps. You need to understand the basics, use good tools, and follow best practices. This guide and our resources are designed for non-security-experts who want to ship responsibly.
What if I already shipped an insecure app?
It's not too late. Run a scan, identify the issues, and start fixing them by priority. Most issues can be fixed without downtime. The important thing is to act now rather than wait for something to go wrong.
Where to Go Next
Recommended Next
Why Security Matters
Understand the real risks of shipping without security and what's at stake.
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