Security Best Practices

This guide covers security best practices for using VentureLab safely and protecting your API keys.

🔐 API Key Security

How VentureLab Stores Your Keys

VentureLab uses your operating system’s secure credential storage:

• Windows: Windows Credential Manager
• macOS: macOS Keychain
• Linux: Secret Service API (GNOME Keyring/KWallet)

Your API keys are never stored in plain text files or application settings.

Best Practices for API Keys

1. Never Share Your API Keys
   • Treat API keys like passwords
   • Don’t commit them to version control
   • Don’t share them in emails or messages
2. Use Separate Keys for Different Projects
   • Create project-specific API keys when possible
   • Makes it easier to track usage and costs
   • Allows revoking access without affecting other projects
3. Regularly Rotate Your Keys
   • Change API keys periodically
   • Immediately rotate if you suspect compromise
   • Delete old keys from provider dashboards
4. Monitor Key Usage
   • Use VentureLab’s Usage Statistics feature
   • Check provider dashboards regularly
   • Set up billing alerts

🛡️ Environment Security

Secure Your Development Environment

1. Keep Your System Updated
   • Install OS security updates
   • Update VentureLab regularly
   • Keep antivirus software current
2. Use Strong System Passwords
   • Protects access to stored credentials
   • Use biometric authentication when available
   • Enable system lock screens
3. Be Careful with Screen Sharing
   • Hide API keys during demos
   • Close VentureLab during screen shares
   • Use the password toggle feature

Network Security

1. Use Secure Networks
   • Avoid public WiFi for sensitive work
   • Use VPN when necessary
   • Ensure HTTPS connections
2. Firewall Configuration
   • Allow VentureLab through firewall
   • Block unnecessary incoming connections
   • Monitor outgoing connections

🚨 If Your Keys Are Compromised

Immediate Actions

1. Revoke the Compromised Key
   • Go to your AI provider’s dashboard
   • Revoke or delete the key immediately
   • Generate a new key
2. Update VentureLab
   • Delete the old key in AI Providers settings
   • Add the new key
   • Test the connection
3. Check for Unauthorized Usage
   • Review recent API usage
   • Check billing statements
   • Contact provider support if needed

Prevention

• Enable 2FA on AI provider accounts
• Use IP allowlists when available
• Set spending limits on accounts

🔒 Data Privacy

What VentureLab Stores Locally

• API Keys: In OS secure storage
• Settings: Application preferences
• Usage Data: Local SQLite database
• Prompts: Custom prompt configurations

What VentureLab Doesn’t Do

• ❌ Send your data to our servers
• ❌ Share API keys with third parties
• ❌ Store conversation history
• ❌ Track personal information

Your AI Provider’s Privacy

Remember that your prompts and responses are sent to your chosen AI provider:

• Review provider privacy policies
• Avoid sharing sensitive business data
• Consider data retention policies
• Understand your provider’s data usage

💡 Additional Security Tips

For Business Users

1. Compliance Considerations
   • Check if AI usage meets regulations
   • Document security measures
   • Consider enterprise agreements
2. Access Control
   • Use separate accounts for team members
   • Don’t share VentureLab installations
   • Audit access regularly

For Developers

1. Building on VentureLab
   • Never hardcode API keys
   • Use environment variables in development
   • Implement proper error handling
2. Contributing
   • Don’t include keys in pull requests
   • Test with your own keys
   • Follow secure coding practices

📋 Security Checklist

• API keys stored securely in VentureLab
• Strong system password/biometrics enabled
• Regular key rotation schedule
• Usage monitoring active
• Billing alerts configured
• 2FA enabled on AI provider accounts
• Regular security updates installed
• Backup of settings (without keys)

🆘 Reporting Security Issues

If you discover a security vulnerability in VentureLab:

1. Do Not post it publicly
2. Email security concerns to [contact email]
3. Include detailed steps to reproduce
4. Allow time for a fix before disclosure

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Remember: Security is a shared responsibility. While VentureLab secures your API keys, you must follow best practices to maintain overall security.