Windsurf Security Best Practices
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.
Quick Wins
Security Best Practices
#1Use 'Ask' Mode for Sensitive Operations
criticalConfigure Cascade to ask before executing potentially dangerous commands. Don't use Auto mode for unknown operations.
Implementation
Set Cascade to 'Ask' mode in settings, review all proposed actions
#2Never Paste Real Credentials in Prompts
criticalAnything in Cascade prompts may be sent to Codeium servers. Use placeholders for all secrets.
Implementation
Use 'YOUR_API_KEY' placeholders, add real values via environment variables
#3Review Cascade's File Modifications
criticalBefore accepting, review all file changes Cascade proposes. AI can make unintended modifications.
Implementation
Use version control, review diffs before accepting
#4Configure Telemetry Settings
highReview what data Windsurf sends. Adjust settings based on your privacy requirements.
Implementation
Check Settings → Privacy to understand and configure telemetry
#5Limit Workspace Scope
highOnly open directories Cascade needs access to. Don't open your entire home folder.
Implementation
Open specific project folders, not broad parent directories
#6Review AI-Generated Security Code
highNever auto-accept auth, crypto, or security-related code. AI makes subtle mistakes.
Implementation
Manually verify all security-critical code before accepting
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Auto-accepting Cascade changes
AI may make unintended or harmful changes
Always review changes before accepting, use version control
Pasting real secrets in prompts
Prompts are sent to Codeium servers
Use placeholder values, configure real secrets via environment variables
Opening entire home directory as workspace
Gives Cascade access to all your files, including sensitive ones
Open only the project directory you're working on
Verify Your Windsurf 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 Cascade safe to use?
Cascade 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.
Does Windsurf send my code to external servers?
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.
Can Cascade delete my files?
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.
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Last updated: January 2026