Use Windsurf IDE safely with these essential security practices. From Cascade agent safety to code review strategies.
Verify your app follows these best practices automatically.
Windsurf and its Cascade agent can dramatically speed up development, but AI-assisted coding requires security awareness. Follow these practices to build securely.
Configure Cascade to ask before executing potentially dangerous commands. Don't use Auto mode for unknown operations.
Set Cascade to 'Ask' mode in settings, review all proposed actions
Anything in Cascade prompts may be sent to Codeium servers. Use placeholders for all secrets.
Use 'YOUR_API_KEY' placeholders, add real values via environment variables
Before accepting, review all file changes Cascade proposes. AI can make unintended modifications.
Use version control, review diffs before accepting
Review what data Windsurf sends. Adjust settings based on your privacy requirements.
Check Settings → Privacy to understand and configure telemetry
Only open directories Cascade needs access to. Don't open your entire home folder.
Open specific project folders, not broad parent directories
Never auto-accept auth, crypto, or security-related code. AI makes subtle mistakes.
Manually verify all security-critical code before accepting
AI may make unintended or harmful changes
Always review changes before accepting, use version control
Prompts are sent to Codeium servers
Use placeholder values, configure real secrets via environment variables
Gives Cascade access to all your files, including sensitive ones
Open only the project directory you're working on
Following best practices is the first step. Verify your app is actually secure with a comprehensive security scan.
Scan Your App FreeCascade can be used safely with precautions: use 'Ask' mode, review all changes, don't share secrets, and limit workspace scope. It's a powerful tool that requires careful use.
Yes, by default Windsurf sends code context to Codeium servers for AI processing. Enterprise plans offer on-premise options. Check privacy settings for configuration options.
Yes, if you allow it. Cascade can execute file operations. Use 'Ask' mode to review destructive operations before they execute. Keep backups and use version control.
Last updated: January 2026