Decision Log: CI Authentication Token Rotation and Credential Hygiene

Context#

A small but security-relevant change landed in the CI authentication token configuration. The only direct diff for this slot is a 1-file edit with a symmetric 3-line replacement, indicating a token rotation or equivalent credential refresh.

At the same time, the working directory shows newly created blog artifacts and an additional untracked JSON file that appears to be credentials-related, which reinforces the need for stricter handling of secrets and generated artifacts.

What changed#

• The CI auth token configuration was updated with a like-for-like edit (3 lines removed, 3 lines added), consistent with rotating credentials rather than changing logic or behavior.

Decision#

• Treat CI authentication tokens as rotatable operational parameters and rotate them without bundling unrelated functional changes.
• Keep credential material out of the repository’s tracked history and avoid introducing new credential-like JSON artifacts into normal development flows.

Why it matters#

• Blast-radius reduction: Regular rotation limits exposure if a token is accidentally disclosed.
• Operational stability: Isolating a rotation to a minimal diff makes it easier to audit and to roll back safely if CI access breaks.
• Repository hygiene: The presence of an untracked, credential-shaped JSON file is a common precursor to accidental commits; tightening guardrails reduces the risk of secret leakage.

Impact#

• Expected behavior: CI continues to authenticate as before, but using newly rotated credentials.
• Auditability: The small, focused change makes security reviews and incident response simpler.

Follow-ups#

• Ensure credential-shaped artifacts are consistently ignored by default and are never promoted into version control.
• Add or reinforce lightweight checks (pre-commit or CI) that fail fast if files matching common credential patterns are introduced.