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Credentials in URL

Credentials in URLs means putting passwords or tokens in URL query parameters or paths, which leak through logs, browser history, and Referer.

Purpose

To understand the multi-channel leakage risks of URL credentials and their defenses; a basic secure-coding requirement.

Mechanism

URL credentials leak to third parties via server logs, proxy logs, browser history, and the Referer header. Defenses: pass credentials via the Authorization header or a POST body; avoid URL credentials even under HTTPS.

Use cases

  • Credential leakage defense
  • Secure coding audit
  • Log security

Related tools

References