How can sensitive information, such as API keys, be securely stored in AWS?

Using AWS Secrets Manager is the most appropriate method for securely storing sensitive information, such as API keys, in AWS. AWS Secrets Manager is a dedicated service designed specifically for safeguarding and managing sensitive data. It provides built-in capabilities for encryption, automatic rotation of credentials, and fine-grained access control based on AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM) policies. This ensures that sensitive information is not only securely stored but also easily retrievable by authorized applications and users when needed, minimizing the risk of exposure.

This service also allows for the management of secrets centrally, making it easier to control who has access to them and to audit their usage. These features make AWS Secrets Manager a robust solution for handling sensitive information compared to other methods mentioned.