Claude Code Security Best Practices
Use Claude Code safely with these essential security practices. From permission management to safe AI-assisted coding.
Verify your app follows these best practices automatically.
Claude Code brings powerful AI assistance to your terminal, but working with AI in the command line requires security awareness. These practices help you use Claude Code safely.
Quick Wins
Security Best Practices
#1Use Permission Tiers Appropriately
criticalClaude Code has permission levels from 'ask' to 'auto'. Use restrictive permissions for sensitive operations.
Implementation
Keep default 'ask' mode for unknown projects, only enable 'auto' for trusted operations
#2Never Share Real Credentials in Prompts
criticalPrompts and context are sent to Anthropic. Never include real API keys, passwords, or secrets.
Implementation
Use placeholder values in prompts, configure real secrets via environment variables
#3Review All File Modifications
criticalClaude Code can modify files. Always review proposed changes before accepting, especially for security-critical code.
Implementation
Use git to track changes, review diffs before accepting modifications
#4Configure .claudeignore for Sensitive Files
highExclude sensitive files from Claude's context using .claudeignore.
Implementation
Add .env*, credentials/, secrets/, and private configs to .claudeignore
#5Audit Shell Commands Before Execution
highClaude Code can run shell commands. Review all commands before allowing execution.
Implementation
Use 'ask' permission mode, read commands carefully before approving
#6Use MCP Servers Carefully
mediumMCP servers extend Claude's capabilities but can access your system. Only use trusted MCP servers.
Implementation
Review MCP server source code before installation, monitor active servers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using 'auto' mode on unfamiliar projects
AI can execute harmful commands without review
Start with 'ask' mode, only escalate for trusted operations
Including real secrets in prompts
Prompts are sent to Anthropic's servers
Use placeholder values, configure secrets via environment variables
Auto-accepting file modifications
AI may introduce bugs or security vulnerabilities
Review all changes in git diff before accepting
Verify Your Claude Code App Security
Following best practices is the first step. Verify your app is actually secure with a comprehensive security scan.
Get Starter ScanFrequently Asked Questions
Is Claude Code safe to use?
Yes, with proper precautions. Use appropriate permission levels, don't share real credentials, and review all file modifications and commands before accepting.
Does Claude Code send my code to Anthropic?
Yes, code context is sent to Anthropic for AI processing. Use .claudeignore to exclude sensitive files. Review Anthropic's privacy policy for data handling details.
Can Claude Code run dangerous commands?
Only if you approve them. Use 'ask' mode to review all commands before execution. Never blindly approve shell commands, especially rm, chmod, or network operations.
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Last updated: January 2026