diff --git a/examples/host-vars.yml b/examples/host-vars.yml
index 80a4c13e..d81a6e8d 100644
--- a/examples/host-vars.yml
+++ b/examples/host-vars.yml
@@ -20,8 +20,10 @@ host_specific_hostname_identity: YOUR_BARE_DOMAIN_NAME_HERE
 
 # A shared secret (between Synapse and Coturn) used for authentication.
 # You can put any string here, but generating a strong one is preferred (e.g. `pwgen -s 64 1`).
+# It must NOT contain any quotes or backticks.
 matrix_coturn_turn_static_auth_secret: ""
 
 # A secret used to protect access keys issued by the server.
 # You can put any string here, but generating a strong one is preferred (e.g. `pwgen -s 64 1`).
+# It must NOT contain any quotes or backticks.
 matrix_synapse_macaroon_secret_key: ""