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Insecurely Generated Token - JWT

Need​

To ensure tokens are generated securely, preventing unauthorized access

Context​

  • Usage of Elixir 1.12 for functional programming and building scalable applications
  • Usage of Phoenix Framework 1.6 for web development
  • Usage of Guardian 2.0 for authentication and authorization

Description​

Non compliant code​

def sign(user) do
  jwt = %{id: user.id}
  secret = 'weak-secret'
  {:ok, token, _claims} = Guardian.encode_and_sign(jwt, secret)
  token
end

This insecure code example shows a JWT token being signed with a weak secret key. This weak key can be easily cracked, allowing attackers to generate their own tokens, modify token parameters and access the service illegitimately.

Steps​

  • Use a strong secret key for JWT signing and verification
  • Consider using environment variables to store the secret key securely
  • Consider using a library or service that can generate strong secret keys

Compliant code​

def sign(user) do
  jwt = %{id: user.id}
  secret = System.get_env('JWT_SECRET')
  {:ok, token, _claims} = Guardian.encode_and_sign(jwt, secret)
  token
end

This secure code example replaces the weak secret key with a strong secret key stored in an environment variable. This enhances the security of the JWT signing and verification process.

References​

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