Production defaults disable debug, demo, and unnecessary admin surfaces

ops-028

Intent

Prevent accidental exposure of dangerous runtime features that widen attack surface in deployed environments.

Applicability

Applies when the diff changes runtime configuration defaults, startup flags, or feature toggles for deployable software.

What to inspect

Debug flags, demo-mode settings, admin consoles, sample credentials, and default production-oriented profiles.

Pass criteria

Production-facing defaults disable debug, demo, and unnecessary admin surfaces unless a separate secure opt-in is required.

Fail criteria

The diff enables debug mode, demo users, or unneeded administrative surfaces in default or production-oriented configuration.

Do not flag

Local-only development profiles or disabled-by-default admin tools with clear access restrictions.

Confidence guidance

HIGH when production or default config explicitly enables debug or demo behavior. MEDIUM when profile resolution is indirect. LOW when production reachability is unclear.

Remediation

Turn the feature off in secure defaults and require explicit development-only enablement when needed.

Pass example

app:
  debug: false
  demoMode: false
  adminConsoleEnabled: false

Fail example

app:
  debug: true
  demoMode: true
  adminConsoleEnabled: true

Sources

  • OWASP Proactive Controls standard