Security

From AI prototype to a secure app in production

With tools like Lovable, a working app can be built in hours. That is a big advantage, but an app that works in a demo is not automatically ready to handle real customers, employees and their data. The difference almost always lies in security: who can see what, where secret keys are kept and what happens to personal data.

Why isn't a prototype ready for production?

A prototype is built to show an idea and support decisions. It therefore focuses on flows and appearance, not on everything that can go wrong. Before the app is released to real users, someone needs to review who can sign in, what data is stored and who can reach it – even without going through the app's own buttons.

Who can see what?

The most common flaw in quickly built apps is a database without rules for who may read and change what. The data can then be reached directly, bypassing the interface. Every table needs rules based on the signed-in user, so that a customer only sees their own data and only authorised staff see the rest.

Secret keys belong on the server

Keys for payment services, email, AI services and other systems should never sit in the code sent to the visitor's browser. They should be stored as secrets and used only in code that runs on the server. Anything readable in the browser should be treated as public.

Personal data and GDPR

Store only the data the app actually needs, decide how long it should be kept and make sure there is a way to delete it. If the app uses AI services or other providers, it must be clear where the data is sent, and the privacy policy should describe what actually happens.

Test as an unauthorised user

Don't just test that the app works for the people meant to use it. Also test what a signed-out visitor or another user can access. Automated security scans find many common flaws, but they do not replace a review of the app's own rules and flows.

Responsibility after launch

An app in production needs someone who follows up on errors, updates dependencies, reviews permissions when employees leave and checks that backups work. Decide before launch who holds that responsibility, so the app stays secure as it grows.