HTTP Only Cookies
HTTP Only Cookies are a security feature in web development that prevents client-side scripts (like JavaScript) from accessing cookie data through the document.cookie API. They are set by the server using the 'HttpOnly' flag in the Set-Cookie HTTP response header, ensuring the cookie is only transmitted in HTTP requests to the server. This helps protect sensitive information, such as session tokens, from cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks by making them inaccessible to malicious scripts.
Developers should use HTTP Only Cookies when handling authentication tokens, session IDs, or any sensitive data that should not be exposed to client-side code, particularly in web applications vulnerable to XSS attacks. It is a best practice for security in modern web development, as it reduces the risk of cookie theft and unauthorized access, making it essential for applications that manage user sessions or personal data.