How to Secure Your PlanetScale App
Last updated: January 12, 2026
PlanetScale provides managed MySQL with security handled at the infrastructure level. This guide covers application-level security for PlanetScale.
Why Security Matters for PlanetScale
Key Security Concerns
Security Strengths
Step-by-Step Security Guide
1. Protect Connection Credentials
Store PlanetScale credentials in environment variables, never in code.
2. Protect Production Branch
Enable production branch protection to require deploy requests for schema changes.
3. Use Separate Branches
PlanetScale branching allows safe schema changes. Use separate branches for development.
4. Implement Application-Level Access Control
PlanetScale doesn't have RLS. Implement access control in your application layer.
5. Use Parameterized Queries
Prevent SQL injection with parameterized queries. MySQL is vulnerable to injection attacks.
// Use parameterized queries
const [rows] = await pool.query(
'SELECT * FROM users WHERE id = ?',
[userId]
);6. Monitor Query Patterns
Use PlanetScale Insights to monitor for unusual query activity.
Common Security Mistakes
Avoid these common PlanetScale security pitfalls:
Recommended Security Tools
Use these tools to maintain security throughout development:
Ready to Secure Your App?
Security is an ongoing process, not a one-time checklist. After implementing these steps, use VAS to verify your PlanetScale app is secure before launch, and consider regular scans as you add new features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PlanetScale have Row Level Security?
No, PlanetScale is MySQL-based and doesn't have built-in RLS like PostgreSQL. Implement access control in your application layer.
How does PlanetScale branching affect security?
Each branch can have its own credentials. Use branch protection for production and separate credentials per environment. This prevents accidental production changes.