This article breaks down what the validationKey does, why it matters, and how to configure it properly. What is the MachineKey ValidationKey?
A validationKey is only as strong as its randomness. Using a simple string like "password123" is an open invitation for hackers to brute-force your signature and forge requests. machinekey validationkey in web.config
Check your production web.config right now. If you don’t see a <machineKey> section and you have more than one server, you are living dangerously. This article breaks down what the validationKey does,