Postman

Securing a Bearer token in Postman involves several steps to ensure that sensitive information remains protected while you use it for API testing. Here’s how you can manage and secure Bearer tokens:

1. Environment Variables:

   • Use Postman's environment variables to store your Bearer token rather than hardcoding it in each request. This allows you to manage the token in a central and secure location.
   • Set up variables:
     • Go to the Manage Environments button (gear icon).
     • Either create a new environment or select an existing one.
     • Add a new variable, e.g., token, and set its initial value to your Bearer token. Ensure that the sensitive checkbox is checked to mask the value.

2. Use Pre-request Scripts:

   • Automate the setting of Bearer tokens using pre-request scripts if your tokens need to be generated dynamically.
   • A script can fetch or refresh the token and set it into an environment variable before the request runs.

3. Authorization Tab:

   • In each request, under the Authorization tab, choose the Bearer Token type.
   • Reference your environment variable in the token field with {{token}}.

4. Keep Tokens Out of Collections:

   • Don’t save tokens directly in collection files when exporting them. They can be accessed via shared links or exports, compromising security.

5. Use Script Checks:

   • Write test scripts to monitor responses. For example, check if the token is about to expire and respond by refreshing it.

6. Secure Postman App:

   • Protect your Postman workspace by using app-level security features, such as locking the app with a password or using team and workspace permissions effectively.

7. Handle API Key Expiry Securely:

   • Implement strategies to handle token expiry, such as automated refresh logic within your environment setup or request workflows.

By following these practices, you can ensure that your Bearer tokens and other sensitive information are handled securely within Postman.