Important warning: finding exposed API keys on GitHub does not make them free to use.
If an API key does not belong to you, using it without explicit permission may constitute unauthorized access, theft of services, fraud, and/or computer misuse depending on your jurisdiction. Even a “test request” can create logs, billing impact, and evidence of unauthorized use.
Tools that scan for leaked keys should be used for defensive security, responsible disclosure, and helping owners rotate compromised secrets — not for exploiting someone else’s account.
If you find a leaked key, do the right thing: do not use it, do not share it, report it to GitHub, and move on.
Important warning: finding exposed API keys on GitHub does not make them free to use.
If an API key does not belong to you, using it without explicit permission may constitute unauthorized access, theft of services, fraud, and/or computer misuse depending on your jurisdiction. Even a “test request” can create logs, billing impact, and evidence of unauthorized use.
Tools that scan for leaked keys should be used for defensive security, responsible disclosure, and helping owners rotate compromised secrets — not for exploiting someone else’s account.
If you find a leaked key, do the right thing: do not use it, do not share it, report it to GitHub, and move on.