As APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are deeply embedded in modern daily life. Connecting services like online operations, banking transactions, transportation apps, and social networks, API security is a crucial aspect in the development and implementation of systems, as these interfaces are often targets of cyber attacks and vulnerabilities.
“APIs act as a gateway into businesses and thus must have a specific level of security. As points of connection between different applications and services, APIs can expose sensitive data and critical functionalities if not properly protected,” comments Filipe Torqueto, Head of Solutions at Sensedia, a global technology company specializing in modern API-based integration solutions.
According to the OWASP API Security Project report, developed by security experts worldwide, common vulnerabilities for APIs include: unrestricted access to sensitive business flows; server request forgery; improper security configuration; inadequate inventory management, and insecure API consumption. Another study conducted by F5, a global Multicloud security and application delivery company, found that the average number of APIs managed by organizations is over 400, many of which have significant protection gaps.
To help minimize the risks of attacks, the Sensedia executive lists five tips to ensure API protection in businesses.
1) Define Responsibilities
Usually, an API does not have a specific owner, and the responsibility for it can be divided among the team that developed it, the team that maintains it, or even a security team.
“It is necessary to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each, even in cases where this responsibility is shared among all. In addition, I recommend the use of some ‘Guardrail’ or ‘protective barrier’, essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and governance in the development and operation of these interfaces. They are guidelines and practices that help teams maintain security and quality standards, minimizing risks and avoiding common errors,” says Torqueto.
2) Attention to good governance practices
Good governance practices in API usage are essential to ensure security, compliance, and efficiency.
They establish clear guidelines that promote standardization and interoperability, facilitating integration between systems. In addition, governance allows for effective control of access and use of APIs, protecting sensitive data and mitigating risks.
“I recommend that the company have an established and centralized API catalog, visible and easily accessible to the designated responsible parties. This can also work for reuse, avoiding rework in the development of new APIs that may have already been created,” explains Torqueto.
“Furthermore, it is essential to use the correct form of authentication and authorization, specific to what the API aims to address. In the case of applications, for example, with APIs exposed to the general public and often subject to various break-in attempts, it is important not only to follow a very robust authentication and authorization model, but also to conduct penetration tests frequently, identifying possible attack vectors and ensuring that the model is functioning,” adds the executive.
3) Use AI as an additional layer of protection
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in API security has become an increasingly effective strategy for detecting and mitigating threats in real-time.
Machine learning algorithms can analyze traffic patterns and identify anomalous behaviors, allowing for early detection of attacks such as code injection attempts or unauthorized access.
“One must think of API security layers like the layers of an onion, one behind the other, making it difficult for attackers. This includes implementing protection measures such as authentication, authorization, encryption, traffic monitoring, using HTTPS, and even Artificial Intelligence, which can be a great ally in this regard,” says Torqueto.
“AI can automate authentication and authorization processes, improving efficiency and incident response. With the capability to adapt to new threats and learn from historical data, AI-based solutions make API security more proactive and robust, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of information exchanged between systems,” he adds.
4) Invest in automation
Automation in APIs is crucial for increasing efficiency and agility in system development and management.
By automating processes such as testing, continuous integration, and deployment, teams can reduce human errors, accelerate development cycles, and ensure faster delivery of new functionalities.
Furthermore, automation enables the monitoring and management of APIs, allowing organizations to identify and resolve issues in real-time, improving the reliability and performance of applications, and freeing developers to focus on more strategic and creative tasks, driving innovation and competitiveness in the market.
“There is no security scale to the necessary standard without automation. Considering that the average number of APIs managed by organizations is over 400, it is advisable for companies to have a platform team that automates what is necessary to keep their APIs secure,” says Torqueto.
5) Considerations when choosing an API provider
Choosing the right API provider is a critical decision that can directly impact the performance and security of a company’s systems.
“Some factors to consider when choosing an API provider are the company’s reputation and reliability, security and compliance practices, support, scalability, and performance. These considerations will help ensure the selection of an API provider that meets your needs and contributes to your company’s success,” concludes.
