Why should API token scopes be limited?

Limiting API token scopes primarily serves to reduce the risk of abuse. When API tokens have restricted scopes, they are granted only the minimum permissions necessary for their intended function. This practice decreases the attack surface and limits the potential damage that could arise from a compromised token. If a token is misused or falls into the wrong hands, the limitations imposed by the specific scopes ensure that the extent of access and the data available to the attacker are minimized.

This approach is part of a broader security principle known as the principle of least privilege, which advocates for giving entities only the permissions they need to perform their tasks. By implementing this practice, organizations can better protect sensitive information, maintain tighter security controls, and adhere to compliance requirements.

Other options like increasing data retrieval speed or enhancing user experience do not directly correlate with the purpose of limiting API token scopes. Simplifying API integration, while beneficial in some contexts, does not specifically address the security concerns that come with broader token permissions. Hence, reducing the risk of abuse stands out as the primary reason for enforcing limited API token scopes.