How Website API Tokens Can Foster High-Grade User Security

Website API Tokens are often part of OAuth 2.0 and are used on the user side. By granting future application or website API tokens, potential and target users can better control user information. API tokens prevent repetitive information logging, erroneous entries, and data exploitation. The Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) has a place in OAuth 2.0 for user-side data and privacy protection.

In layman’s language, it means the security offered by application platforms or website API tokens is a non-negotiable aspect and OAuth 2.0 is one of the most viable approaches for this task. An improved version of OAuth, OAuth 2.0 contributes immensely toward web-based and mobile APIs. It also helps in monitoring user access and implementing end-to-end security approaches.

According to a report, security attacks on APIs increased 400% in just six months. But API security is not a hopeless cause. There are ways to increase security, like website API tokens. The effective implementation of website API tokens is subjective and varies as per the need of the hour. However, they are certainly standardized. It’s essential to utilize the best API methods.

This includes integrating the best API token execution approaches whose adoption derives the best possible results. Businesses have to delve deeper into each strategy and select one that suits them best. Be that as it may, this guide is a brief explanation of what website API tokens are, how they work, some important context on website API tokens, and the best integration practices.

Understanding Website API Tokens And How They Work

For beginner webmasters, an Application Programming Interface (API) is a software intermediary for two applications to talk to each other. In the context of APIs, the word Application refers to any software with a distinct function. Interface can be thought of as a contract of service between two applications. This contract defines how the two communicate via requests and responses.

So, Website API Tokens are small snippets of code built to secure API access. These small strings are sent to API servers, where they act as identification, proving whether the user or application has access to the API. Their purpose is to give the API server both information and authentication. SSL is a place in OAuth 2.0 and is responsible for user-side data and privacy protection.

Notably, OAuth 2.0 fosters non-compromised security on API systems. Now, let’s try to understand the relationships between OAuth 2.0 and API tokens. An external server is widely used to store sensitive user credentials related to login details, passwords, and credit card details. In such cases, OAuth 2.0 implementation makes developers and end-users of API trustworthy for each other.

In the cloud computing technology space, data storage is possible through the help of website API tokens simply because of the structural components’ presence. Each structural component behaves distinctively and is responsible for a certain aspect of data storage. Those three structural components of an API token are a header, a payload, and a signature.

The Components:

Header: It’s the header that provides the token format-related information to the APIs. By proffering this information, the header assists APIs in deciding what information they can expect out of a token. As it makes most of the part of an API token, it’s often referred to as an ‘API body’ as well. Details related to user session expiration and permission are also stored in the header section.
‍Payload: Holding the highest importance, the payload is the unique passkey that the API uses. Each API resource will demand a payload that contains more sensitive information about the individual user or application. This might include user IDs, access permissions, and other authentication data.
Signature: The signature protects the token from tampering. By using cryptographic algorithms to generate a unique, secure signature for each token, APIs can validate the data transmitted between systems.

All these three components form an API. Based on the project requirements, API developers can decide on the API token receive process. The payload is the most important part of the API token. It’s essentially a passkey for the API. A particular API resource will require a certain asset in the API token payload. If it’s not there or is incorrect, the caller won’t be able to access that resource.

How API Tokens Work:

A user or application trying to connect with the API provides the token to the API server to authenticate their identity and access.
The server reviews the token. If the token is valid, the API server grants the requested level of access. If the token is invalid or does not grant the necessary level of access, the API server rejects the request.

On the one hand, in terms of SSL, website API tokens permit access and deliver instant actions in case of any wrong actions. On the other hand, when using website API tokens, the API provider can adjust or revoke access at any time. In simple language, website API tokens or access tokens are just a bunch of unique codes bundled with every API and feature user-specific information.

API tokens can even have built-in expiration dates, so they can’t be reused forever. Structure-wise an API token is a minute entity yet entails a huge amount of data. They are device-specific. API tokens for smartphones won’t work for laptops or vice versa. Each time a user uses a different device for login or accessing APIs, a distinct API token is required — may sound messy and time-consuming.

However, the main aim is to improve the security standing as it prevents over-exploitation and prediction of a single API. They follow a standard authorization and authentication process while forming a federation or domain. The APIs involved in such workflow tend to be based on a shared model.

The Notable Difference Between API Keys And Tokens

Both these resources shared the same goals, improving API security, but in a different manner. Just like API tokens, API keys also feature string-based text. But, it’s not as informative as API token. Every concerned entity and server has a distinct API Key that is shared for every acceptable API request. Every time a user has to provide login passwords and email to access a service.

Similarly, an API key has to be provided to access an API. API tokens are unique so are API keys. The key goal of API keys is to verify the application while API tokens are used for user verification. API key uses limited information as application verification isn’t that extensive a job. But, user verification is extensive and will ask for more details. Hence, the API token will store more data.

This is both a boon and a bane. With more information verification ought to be precise. Generally speaking, big data in cybersecurity makes API tokens very complex. Remember, they are not easy to handle. Struggles are more common when you use them in IoT applications. When it comes to standardization, API tokens outperform the API keys as the latter option lacks standardization.

They are introduced as per the requirement of the application. Because of this reason only, API key usage is on the decline. Contrary to this, API tokens are utterly standardized. Each token features three components. Regardless of the type of application, the API token is of the same kind. Hence, its adoption is on the rise. At the structural level, they are poles apart.

API Keys:

Helps keep anonymous traffic out — that’s helpful for security
Authenticates projects, not individuals or applications
Can do some broad authorization and are simpler to implement
Used for public APIs or APIs that don’t demand strict user authentication

API Tokens:

Are used for API security
Authenticates users and applications
Can be managed by API provider
Can include a built-in expiration date

Behind every highly integrated, communicative, and scalable application platform or website system that we see around us is at least one API security method in use. It’s indeed revolutionizing the modern-day application development process and improving it on every front. That said, its weak security profile is still a matter of concern for many. But, that doesn’t mean they are not essential.

Functionality-wise, website API tokens are very much similar to APIs. There is a payload linked with a token in a hashed format. It follows a standard protocol that includes pre-defined instructions. Using the payload, the username and password information of the concerned user are verified. After successful verification, the API forwards an asset to the end-user browser.

In layman’s language, the role of a web browser such as Google, Firefox, Edge, or Safari is to help store the API credentials somewhere safe. Much like different APIs use different API Protocols, it’s worth mentioning that most website API tokens also come in different types. Each type of API token has its strengths and weaknesses in terms of security and ease of implementation.

1. JSON Web Tokens

Possibly the most well-known API token type, JSON Web Tokens is used everywhere. As compact, self-contained tokens, JSON web tokens contain all the information needed about the user or application. They’re also URL-safe, which makes them a particularly useful type of token for web applications because they can be used in a URL. These web tokens can include extra security features as needed. It’s also possible to add extra information to these tokens, a useful feature for developers.

2. OAuth Tokens

Another common API token, OAuth tokens is used for delegated authorization. This means that they allow a user to provide a third-party application access to their resources without needing to give the third-party application access to the user’s login credentials. OAuth tokens are an invaluable security addition used for web applications and APIs that require user authentication and authorization, like social media platforms or online banking.

3. Personal Access Tokens

As the name suggests, personal access tokens are tied to a personal account and individual credentials. They allow users to provide a third-party application access to one service. Users can directly access their own resources via third-party apps when using personal access tokens.

4. Bearer Tokens

A simpler authentication token than the others, bearer tokens function without additional cryptographic operations. Because of this, they’re not as secure as the others. But they’re easier to implement. Like other types of tokens, though, they’re self-contained, so they have all the information they need to access the API inside.

5. Single Sign-On (SSO) Tokens

The Single-Sign-on Token (SSO) is usually issued by a third-party identity provider (IdP) rather than the API provider itself. SSO tokens authenticate once with IdP, then have access to multiple applications without the need for re-authentication each time. We often use the Single-Sign-on Token process for 3rd party services such as Facebook login details.

The Basic API Tokens Modus Operandi And Topmost Platforms

API security is a non-negotiable aspect and OAuth 2.0 is one of the most viable approaches for this task. An improved version of OAuth, OAuth 2.0 contributes immensely toward web-based and mobile APIs. By monitoring user access and implementing end-to-end security approaches, OAuth 2.0 promises non-compromised API security. How are OAuth 2.0 and API tokens relationship?

An external server is widely used to store sensitive user credentials related to login details, passwords, and credit card details. In such a situation, OAuth 2.0 implementation makes API developers and end-users trustworthy for each other. API tokens are part of OAuth 2.0 as well and are used on the user side to grant future website API token users a better hold over user-based information.

API tokens prevent repetitive information logging, erroneous entries, and data exploitation. Most development teams struggle to keep track of their APIs. Fortunately, various platforms offer some helpful API Discovery Methods that can empower webmasters to map out and understand the actual attack surface area. Ensure you check on some of these essential platforms as listed below.

Including:

A combination of website API tokens and API keys can help enhance the functionality and value of a digital online business, brand, or product. By integrating with other services and platforms, you can build a more comprehensive and seamless user experience. API integration can connect a product to social media platforms, analytics tools, and even payment gateways.

Note that when an API token expires, the system does not remove it. In that case, you must manually delete an API token. You can remove an API token with the help of a website-based application platform such as the cPanel’s Manage API Tokens interface (cPanel » Home » Security » Manage API Tokens) or the UAPI Tokens::revoke function.

The Topmost Recommendable Website API Tokens Security Practices

Of course, it’s worth reminding webmasters that if not well protected, APIs can become an entry point for cybercriminals and cyberpunks. Technically, API token improves the security standing of this vital development entity. In one notable case, nearly 10 million customer records were stolen in September 2022 from Optus, one of the leading Australian telecommunication companies.

In addition to names and contact details, the stolen information also included passport and Medicare data. The company attributed the data breach to a sophisticated cyberattack, but further investigation reports revealed that Optus used an API that “did not require authorization or authentication.” In hindsight, anyone could have used that API endpoint to access customer records.

Still, in addition to having more access points, APIs are more flexible to changes. For instance, an API can have more than one version in production. An API creator can make a new API version available to new users, even as existing ones continue using its older version. These multiple API versions can, at times, pose security problems that a conventional WAF might not detect.

API security measures such as authentication, authorization, encryption, and monitoring can mitigate unauthorized access to a large extent. OWASP, a nonprofit foundation that works toward improving software security standards, released a list of the top 10 API security risks that digital online webmasters and website-based business owners must be aware of.

The Topmost Security Risks:

Broken Object Level Authorization:— Failing to validate user inputs or permissions before granting access to an object
Broken User Authentication:— Vulnerabilities that allow attackers to impersonate legitimate users

API tokens are considered to be one of the most secure methods of authentication, as they deliver an added layer of security compared to API keys. To maintain this high level of security, the API token use has to be monitored. This involves implementing strict access controls and regularly updating the tokens or adding expiration dates to keep them from becoming compromised over time.

On a similar note, APIs can also adapt to different software environments. For example, an API that is written in PHP can deliver a JSON or XML payload that can be used by an application that is written in JavaScript. Again, this adaptability can pose new cybersecurity threats that don’t exist in web applications. Most web/app developers use several methods to keep API tokens secure.

1. Automation

This strategy includes discovering all your essential website API tokens and security endpoints. In this case, tools such as Google Discovery or Postman can help automate the discovery of all your API endpoints. This is the first step toward identifying API security risks and gaps. Equally important, ensure you also perform API security tests. In particular, this strategy can help uncover hidden security risks.

Eventually, it helps by testing business API Tokens logic and current usage practices. OAuth 2.0 API tokens are the best bet to make when API tokens are used for a user-side application. Such a token is easy to handle and will involve continual communication with the resource server. For APIs to offer a product or service for 3rd party applications, simple API tokens are preferred.

Authentication is the process of questioning and validating the credibility of a user’s identity. After user authentication, APIs also need to determine the level of resources every user is authorized to access. Use Secret Keys, protocols like OAuth 2.0, JSON Web Tokens (JWT), HTTP Headers, or a combination of these methods to authenticate API users and validate their authorization levels.

The approach can also combine two or more authentication resources to avoid information compromise. For every user-side query request that the API receives, an access token comes with it. The job of the access token here is to make sure the API is accessible for the respective user till the time token is usable. It all depends upon the API Token Authentication process adopted.

Such tokens remain active only for a limited time and prevent creating different login details for different services. For your information, SSL has a special place in OAuth 2.0 and is responsible for user-side data and privacy protection. In SSL, API tokens permit access and deliver instant actions in case of any wrong actions.

2. Encryption

APIs can also use encryption as an additional layer of security. Remember, this is a process of converting plain data into an unreadable cipher that can be unlocked only with a valid key. However, even after implementing API security measures, the possibility of an attack still exists. So, it is important to use an external monitoring system that allows you to detect any anomalies in API usage.

Likewise, Time-Based Tokens are another form of encryption to consider — you can get codes from an application like Google Authenticator or Duo. This form of Two-Factor Authentication adds an extra layer of protection to logins. Once enabled & configured, each time you sign in you will be asked to enter both your username & password as well as a second factor such as a security code.

3. Authentication

To authenticate users, you can use the OAuth Protocol to standardize the authentication of API users and sessions. By asking for user credentials in only one place, OAuth avoids exposing user credentials to bad actors. And it also helps you set customized API resource access rules. You can also choose to use OpenID Connect on top of the OAuth protocol for an added layer of security.

OpenID relieves you from the responsibility of managing end-user credentials. It offers granular ‌access control features and provides your end users with features such as encryption of identity data, discovery of OpenID Providers, and a predefined logout option. It also allows web, mobile, and JavaScript clients to ask or get information about authenticated users or sessions.

API developers can also consider using SAML to authenticate their end users from a secure identity provider they already use, offering single sign-on (SSO) options. A combination of these best practices helps you validate user identity and sessions to prevent API identification and authentication failures and other related errors. Together, these practices can help in various ways.

Including:

Withstand credential stuffing attacks
Discourage users from reusing weak passwords
Avoid inadequate session timeout settings

4. Authorization

Regarding authorization, it’s worth noting that most third-party applications leverage the Single Sign-On functionality. This helps provide direct access to features such as your billing system account without you having to re-authenticate. You may disable this functionality if you wish to deny access to third-party applications or users who should not access your billing account.

The same token type is favored for any automation–dependent applications but the best API token usage approach is to keep all the crucial authentication-related information in an Authorization: Bearer object. Ensure that the JSON file is used. Also, replace the string-based authentication with the JWT format as it’s highly optimized and is compatible with most programming languages.

5. Algorithms

Because APIs are built to connect different applications and systems, they are infinitely extendable. However, this extendibility creates fuzzy boundaries and unknown access points. Be that as it may, effective API security requires additional discovery, testing, monitoring, and active runtime protection capabilities beyond what a conventional website or application platform may require.

You can adopt other innovative API token authentication practices to safeguard the data they carry. For instance, you can use a strong algorithm for API tokens. Verify every request that you receive, and blacklist the IP addresses involved in sending malicious requests. Using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is also an ideal approach to improve overall security.

Strong Encryption And Hashing Algorithms:

Encryption algorithms, like AES-256, are used to ensure that API tokens are transmitted securely and cannot be intercepted or tampered with by third parties.
Hashing algorithms, such as SHA-256, are used to ensure that API tokens cannot be easily reverse-engineered or guessed by attackers.

When implementing API tokens, it’s common to use encryption and hashing algorithms that are widely recognized and have been thoroughly tested for security vulnerabilities. If the API provider notices suspicious usage patterns, they’ll revoke access to that website or application user.

6. Validation

Usually, the validation process includes restricting access to specific IP addresses — API providers block unauthorized users and applications, keeping data safe, and preventing malicious attacks. To manage IP addresses associated with API tokens, API providers typically require users or applications to specify a list of allowed IP addresses when creating or requesting a token.

The API server validates the IP address of incoming requests against the list of allowed IP addresses and only grants access if the IP address is on the list. Webmasters may also configure some API tokens to grant access only to the specific resources and actions that are required for a particular use case. For example, let’s say there is an API that helps manage a user’s financial data.

In this case, the API token should only grant access to the specific types of financial data that are required and should restrict access to any other data or resources. This keeps user data protected.

7. Certification

A certification tool such as the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) can help prevent man-in-the-middle attacks — where a third party intercepts and alters the communication between the client and server. Without SSL encryption, the API traffic can be intercepted, potentially exposing sensitive data and compromising the system.

Implementing SSL encryption for API traffic typically involves obtaining an SSL/TLS Certificate and configuring the API server to use HTTPS, the encrypted version of HTTP. SSL encryption also improves the performance of the API by reducing the time required to establish a secure connection and the impact of network latency on API performance.

Summary Notes:

Just as we have highlighted, it’s easy to get API tokens and API keys mixed up. Especially since they’re both used for granting access to an API and both are in the HTTP headers of an API request. But they have different purposes. In most cases, they’re often used together because they complement each other. API keys offer broad authorization though they don’t provide rigorous security.

API keys are less granular when compared with API tokens. Hence, any API key compromise will lead to application threats. API tokens, on the other hand, are more granular. This is why they have better security control. Its compromise won’t cause much harm to the application. Essentially, the API token is revoked immediately when an error or any malicious activity is spotted.

By all means, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) offer greater flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and rapid development options because they allow you and your users to reuse external software services and data flows. However, if you aren’t careful, those same API endpoints can also expose sensitive data and draw attacks from bad actors. Any business isn’t unique in its failure.

Consider a failure such as not implementing adequate API authentication, authorization, and encryption. So, all your APIs must be set up to prevent bad actors from accessing sensitive data. Otherwise, you risk data breaches, financial penalties, and user distrust. Overall, APIs help foster security — that’s helpful because most cybercriminals like to hide in anonymous traffic.

More Resources:

Finally, as you have learned, website and application developers utilize several methods that integrate API tokens for security. Not sure where you stand with your website API tokens to foster security for both your business and users? You can download this free checklist that serves as a starting point for Engineering and Security teams looking to keep APIs compliant and secure.

How Website API Tokens Can Foster High-Grade User Security