> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/appsec-rules/secrets-security/appsec-secret-359.md).

# Elliptic Curve Private Key Base64 detected in code

## Rule Details

|                       |                     |
| --------------------- | ------------------- |
| Cortex AppSec Rule ID | APPSEC\_SECRET\_359 |
| Category              | Secrets             |
| Severity              | LOW                 |
| Framework             | Git                 |

## Impact

The Elliptic Curve Private Key (Base64) is a raw cryptographic secret.

Exposure is an Extremely Critical Risk allowing an attacker to sign data or code as your organization. Unlike an API key, this cannot be "revoked" on a server; the public key trust must be destroyed globally.

## How to Fix

To remediate exposed Auth tokens or Signing Keys:

1. Log in to your Identity Provider or OAuth provider settings.
2. Rotate the compromised Client Secret, Private Key, or Signing Certificate.
3. Update your application configuration with the new credentials.
4. Redeploy your application to ensure the new keys are in effect.

Next, remove the secret from your codebase:

1. Locate the exposed secret in your codebase.
2. Replace the hardcoded value with a secure variable or reference.

Finally, clean your version control history:

1. Permanently remove the sensitive data from your version control history to ensure it cannot be retrieved.

Warning: Rotating signing keys or client secrets will likely invalidate active user sessions or tokens. Be prepared for users to be logged out.


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