Stripe: 5 configuration errors that allow paywall bypass
> TL;DR: Your Stripe keys are in the frontend. Your payment sessions are manipulable. Here are 5 errors we find.
Stripe is secure. Your integration isn't.
Error 1: Secret key in frontend
The sk_live_* key should NEVER appear in client-side JavaScript.
Error 2: Client-only subscription verification
If subscription check is frontend-only, users can bypass the paywall.
Error 3: Webhooks without signature verification
Anyone can forge a "payment_succeeded" event.
Error 4: Client-side manipulable price
Users can modify the checkout amount.
Error 5: No rate limiting on free trials
Unlimited account creation for infinite free trials.
Key Takeaways
Building software? CleanIssue performs security audits for your product in real-world conditions, no source code access needed. For a first read of your exposure, start with an external review of your application.
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Sources
Editorial analysis based on official vendor, project, and regulator documentation.
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