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Learn how to reauthenticate a user in Firestore with the refresh token method, without storing passwords in your app.
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How to Reauthenticate a User in Firestore Without Storing Passwords

If you're developing a mobile app with Delphi and integrating Firebase for authentication and data management, you may run into some challenges regarding user reauthentication. Specifically, you might want to prevent users from having to log in again every time they open the app without saving sensitive information like passwords. This can be a common concern, especially when you want to prioritize user experience while maintaining security. In this guide, we'll discuss how you can effectively handle reauthentication in Firestore by using refresh tokens instead of storing user passwords.

The Challenge of User Reauthentication

Upon the first opening of the application, a user creates an account using their email and password. They are then allowed to access their documents in Firestore based on the defined rules. However, when the user closes the app and reopens it, there is a desire for a seamless experience where they do not have to re-enter their login credentials. Storing passwords in a configuration file is not a secure solution, hence the need for an alternative approach.

What's the Common Problem?

User Experience: Users prefer not to input their passwords every time they use the app.

Security: Storing passwords in a config file is risky and should be avoided.

So, how can you achieve this desired functionality without compromising on security? The answer lies in the use of refresh tokens.

Solution: Using Refresh Tokens for Reauthentication

Fortunately, if you've previously authenticated a user, you can utilize the last refresh token to log them back in without needing to store their password or prompt them for it again. Here’s a step-by-step guide to implement this solution effectively.

Step 1: Initialize Firebase Configuration

First, ensure that your Firebase configuration is set up correctly within your Delphi application. You need to make use of the TFirebaseConfiguration class.

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Step 2: Use the Last Refresh Token to Reauthenticate

When the user returns to the application, instead of initializing the user with their email and password, simply use the last stored refresh token for login. Here’s how you can do that:

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In this piece of code, replace 'last_token' with the actual token that you reapplied during the user’s previous session. This will automatically authenticate them without further credentials being required.

Step 3: Refresh the Token When Necessary

If there's a need for a token refresh during the user session, you can achieve this with the following code snippet:

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This effectively checks if the token needs refreshing and makes the request accordingly, maintaining the user’s session securely.

Conclusion

By implementing the use of refresh tokens, you can create a smooth user experience for your mobile app while ensuring their passwords and sensitive information remain secure and unstored. This approach significantly reduces friction for users while accurately managing authentication states. Keep in mind that security should always be a priority, and leveraging refresh tokens is an effective strategy to manage user reauthentication without compromising safety.

You now have the tools needed to handle user sessions more effectively, making your app both user-friendly and secure.