QamoosTech
SecurityIntermediate

JWT (JSON Web Token)

PronunciationJOT

Definition

A signed token that proves who you are. The server can trust it without keeping a session. The content is readable, but it cannot be changed without breaking the signature.

Where you hear it

API authentication.

Examples

  • Send the JWT in the Authorization: Bearer header.
  • The JWT expired, so you got a 401.

Common mistake

Storing secrets in the payload. A JWT is encoded, not encrypted, so anyone can read it.