A. If the access token is compromised, the client credentials do not have to be reissued
B. If the client ID is compromised it can be exchanged for an API key
C. If the access token is compromised it can be exchanged for an API key
D. If the client secret is compromised, the client credentials do not have to be reissued
Explanation:
OAuth 2.0 provides a more secure and flexible way of handling API authentication compared to API keys.
Here’s a detailed explanation of the advantage mentioned:
• OAuth 2.0 Client Credentials Grant:
How It Works: In this flow, a client application uses its client ID and client secret to obtain an access token from the authorization server.
Access Tokens: These tokens are short-lived and used to authenticate API requests.
• Security Advantages:
Token Compromise: If an access token is compromised, it only grants limited access because it has a short lifespan and can be easily revoked.
Client Credentials: The client credentials (client ID and secret) are not exposed during API calls, reducing the risk of them being compromised.
Token Refresh: New tokens can be obtained without exposing the client credentials again.
• Comparison with API Keys:
API Keys: If an API key is compromised, it often provides long-term access without expiration.
Revoking the API key impacts all users or applications using it.
OAuth Tokens: Compromised tokens can be individually revoked without needing to change the client credentials, minimizing disruption.
Reference:
• OAuth 2.0 Framework: OAuth 2.0
• MuleSoft Security Best Practices: API Security