Protection Sensitive Data In Terraform Code

To protect sensitive information in Terraform code, you can follow several best practices and techniques. Here are some recommended approaches:

1. Use Sensitive Variables: Terraform provides a sensitive flag for input variables. By marking sensitive variables, Terraform redacts their values in console output and log messages, reducing the risk of accidental disclosure. You can use this flag to protect sensitive data such as usernames, passwords, API tokens, or Personally Identifiable Information (PII).
2. Store Secrets Outside Terraform Code: Avoid storing secrets directly in Terraform files. Instead, use external secret management systems like HashiCorp Vault, AWS Secrets Manager, or Azure Key Vault. These tools provide secure storage and retrieval of secrets, which can be accessed by Terraform during runtime.
3. Store State Remotely: When using Terraform state, consider storing it remotely rather than locally. Remote state backends like Terraform Cloud or S3 support encryption at rest, providing better security for sensitive data. Additionally, remote state backends offer access controls, auditing, and versioning capabilities.
4. Encrypt Sensitive Data: For sensitive data stored in the .tfstate file, you can encrypt the file itself. By configuring the backend to use encryption, you ensure that sensitive information remains protected. For example, when using the S3 backend, enabling encryption at rest provides an extra layer of security.
5. Avoid Plain Text Secrets: Pre-requisite #1 is not to store secrets in plain text. Instead, consider techniques like using environment variables, encrypted files (e.g., KMS, PGP, SOPS), or secret stores (e.g., Vault) to manage and provide secrets to Terraform.
6. Secure Access to State: Apply proper access controls to the remote state, ensuring only authorized users or roles have access to the state data. Use IAM policies or similar mechanisms provided by your chosen remote state backend to restrict access and track activity.

Remember that security is an ongoing process, and it’s important to regularly review and update your security measures as new vulnerabilities and best practices emerge.