What are refresh tokens and how do they impact user sessions?

What are refresh tokens and how do they impact user sessions?

Refresh tokens are credentials used to obtain new access tokens without requiring the user to log in again. They enhance user experience by allowing seamless session management.

Can you explain how refresh tokens improve security?

Certainly! Refresh tokens allow access tokens to have shorter lifespans, reducing the risk of token theft. If an access token is compromised, it will expire quickly, limiting potential damage.

What happens if a refresh token is compromised?

If a refresh token is compromised, an attacker could potentially gain long-term access to user sessions. It's crucial to implement measures like revocation and rotation of refresh tokens to mitigate this risk.

Are there best practices for managing refresh tokens?

Yes, best practices include using secure storage, implementing token expiration, and regularly rotating refresh tokens to enhance security.