How can PHP developers prevent loading sensitive data, such as passwords, through include() statements?

PHP developers can prevent loading sensitive data, such as passwords, through include() statements by storing sensitive data in a separate configuration file outside of the web root directory. This way, the sensitive data is not accessible to external users. Developers can then include this configuration file in their PHP scripts to access the sensitive data without exposing it to potential security risks. 

<?php
// config.php
$database_host = 'localhost';
$database_username = 'root';
$database_password = 'password123';

// index.php
include('/path/to/config.php');

// Use $database_host, $database_username, $database_password as needed

Keywords

PHP include() sensitive data security password protection

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