IDE Credential Detection and Security With Akeyless for Cursor and VS Code

Summary:

The Akeyless plugin for Cursor and VS Code delivers real-time IDE credential detection, instantly flagging exposed API keys, tokens, and passwords as developers code. With one-click secure storage to Akeyless Vault and seamless IDE integration, it brings true IDE security to your daily workflow—no context switching, no missed secrets.
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Hardcoded Secrets in Development Put Organizations at Risk

Developers frequently embed sensitive credentials API keys, database passwords, and tokens directly into their code. Despite security awareness, this persists due to:

• Disconnected Tools: Security solutions often operate outside the IDE, forcing developers to switch contexts.
• Workflow Disruptions: Managing secrets externally interrupts coding momentum.
• Delayed Feedback: Without immediate detection, secrets can slip into commits unnoticed.

IDE Credential Detection with Akeyless Plugin for Cursor and VS Code

Developers need security tools that align with their workflow. Cursor and Visual Studio (VS) Code are leading IDEs for modern development, yet they lack native IDE credential detection.

The Akeyless Secrets Manager plugin for Cursor and Visual Studio Code brings enterprise-grade IDE credential detection and real-time IDE security directly into these environments. Instead of relying on post-commit scanning or external dashboards, developers get instant in-IDE alerts and fixes for hardcoded secrets.

This plugin adds proactive security visibility within the developer’s coding environment, enabling real-time secret detection and management without leaving Cursor or VS Code.

How the Akeyless Plugin Enhances Your Workflow

Real Time IDE Credential Detection

The Akeyless plugin scans your code as you type in Cursor or VS Code, identifying potential secrets like API keys, passwords, or tokens. It provides:

• Instant visual feedback (highlighted lines) to flag risks.
• Support for diverse secret patterns across all programming languages and file types.
• Contextual prompts to securely handle detected credentials.

This proactive detection turns the IDE into the first line of defense against exposed credentials.

One Click Secret Storage

With a single right-click in Cursor or VS Code, the Akeyless plugin allows you to save detected secrets to the Akeyless vault, ensuring:

• No disruption to your coding flow.
• Secure storage without manual copy-pasting.
• Compliance with enterprise security standards.

Integrated Secrets Management

The Akeyless plugin enables you to access and manage your Akeyless secrets directly within Cursor or VS Code:

• Browse your vault from the IDE’s sidebar.
• Search and retrieve secrets with one click.
• Real-time synchronization with your Akeyless account for seamless access.

Inside the Akeyless Plugin: Capabilities That Strengthen IDE Security

Detect Secrets Instantly as You Code

With built-in IDE credential detection, Akeyless continuously scans your files in Cursor or VS Code, no need to trigger a manual scan. It recognizes exposed credentials like API keys, passwords, and tokens across virtually any language or file type. When a risk is detected, it highlights the line immediately, giving you instant, in-context feedback before code ever leaves your machine.

Move Secrets Securely in One Step

Instead of juggling multiple tools or copying values manually, developers can right-click any detected secret and send it directly to Akeyless Vault. This quick action secures the credential without breaking your development flow. The plugin replaces risky manual handling with automatic protection, reinforcing IDE security without adding friction.

Unified Access Inside the IDE

Your Akeyless Vault stays within reach in the IDE sidebar, no browser tabs required. Search, retrieve, and manage secrets directly from within Cursor or VS Code, with real-time sync to your Akeyless account. Whether you’re rotating keys or reviewing what’s stored, you can do it all from the same workspace where you write and secure your code.

Why It Matters

By embedding IDE credential detection and security controls directly within Cursor and VS Code via the Akeyless plugin, developers can catch and secure secrets at the source. This approach:

• Prevents sensitive credentials from reaching version control or production.
• Maintains developer productivity by keeping security within the IDE.
• Fosters a proactive security mindset without added complexity.

Try It Yourself: See Real-Time Credential Detection in Action

If you’re already an Akeyless customer, this feature is available to you today. Install the Akeyless plugin for Cursor or VS Code and start detecting, securing, and managing credentials directly in your IDE.

See installation instructions here: Akeyless Secrets Manager for Cursor and VS Code.

If you’re not yet an Akeyless customer and want to see IDE credential detection in action, schedule a demo with our team to explore how it can strengthen your development security.

FAQs