How to Safely Send Username and Password in Power BI Report URL

When it comes to sharing Power BI reports securely, sending usernames and passwords in URLs can pose a significant security risk. However, there are ways to address this issue without compromising sensitive information.

Use of Parameters:

One common method is to utilize parameters in the Power BI report URL. Parameters allow you to pass variables securely without exposing actual credentials. You can set up parameters for usernames and passwords within the report itself.

Token-based Authentication:

Another secure approach is to implement token-based authentication. This involves generating a token that represents the user's identity and using it to access the report instead of sending the actual login credentials.

SSO Integration:

If your organization uses Single Sign-On (SSO), you can integrate Power BI with your SSO provider. This way, users can access reports seamlessly without the need to enter usernames and passwords separately.

Secure Embedding:

Consider using secure embedding options provided by Power BI, such as embedding reports within applications using app tokens or service principals. This ensures that user credentials are not directly exposed in URLs.

Conclusion:

Safely sending usernames and passwords in Power BI report URLs requires careful consideration of security measures. By leveraging parameters, token-based authentication, SSO integration, and secure embedding techniques, you can protect sensitive information while sharing reports effectively.