Application programming interfaces (APIs) are an incredibly useful tool for connecting apps, collecting information, and streamlining services. However, without the proper cybersecurity protections, APIs can also act as the perfect entry point for hackers.
This guide will go over the basics of API security, including deep dives into questions like “What is an API key?” and “What are the risks of API attacks?” So let’s dive into the answers.
What Is an API Key?
So, what is an API key? Let’s break it down: an API key is a unique code that’s assigned to different applications, sites, and users that want to interact through an API. You can think of it kind of like a login password, which confirms your identity and right to access certain sites or information.
When a user wants to access a project, an application wants to pull data from another site, etc., the access request must be accompanied by the API key, which the API then uses to verify whether or not that user or application has access to the requested info, as well as how much of the data they can access.
What Are API Attacks?
Because APIs connect various applications, handle large amounts of sensitive data, and can greatly affect business operations, API attacks have become an increasingly common form of cybercrime.
Scammers utilize a wide variety of methods (such as MITM attacks, token hacking, DDoS attacks, etc.) in order to hack into endpoints and exploit other vulnerabilities, granting them access to data and allowing them to disrupt operations.
What Are the Risks of API Attacks?
Because APIs connect to so many vital business programs and transport sensitive client data, the consequences of API attacks should not be downplayed. Here’s just a brief overview of what you risk without proper API keys and protection:
- Widespread breaches through unauthorized access to programs, computers, and entire networks
- Exposure of sensitive company and client data, increasing the likelihood of identity theft
- Significant financial losses from repair costs, fees, compensation, etc.
- Possible fines for compliance violations or other legal fees
- Lost sales, overhead, salaries, etc., due to downtime
- Reputational damage due to slow service or lost customer data
How Can I Protect My API?
You can avoid these and other devastating consequences by implementing proper API security measures.
Implement Strong Authentication through MFA and Tokens
Strong authentication methods, like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and token-based authentication, in addition to API keys, ensure that only verified users access your APIs and that they only access the parts of it that they should. These measures add extra layers of security by combining something the user knows, has, and is (e.g., their password, token, and fingerprint).
Utilize Gateways
API gateways consolidate all of the traffic between users and your actual servers, databases, programs, etc., into a single entry point so you can more effectively filter and validate requests before they infiltrate the backend of your systems. This increased control makes it easier to track traffic and block unauthorized access.
Enforce Rate Limiting and Throttling
By limiting the number of API requests a user or system can make in a set timeframe, rate limiting prevents server overloads and mitigates threats like DDoS attacks. Throttling sets rules that users must follow to use the API and disconnects any users who violate these conditions.
Teach Your Team
Your employees can be one of your greatest cybersecurity resources or your biggest threats. Teach them about common API threats, the security measures you’re taking, and what they can do to prevent, identify, and report suspicious activity. This training will help them know how to respond to and report attacks quickly and effectively, leading to prompt resolutions instead of uneducated link clicks.
Launch Monitoring and Testing Programs
Continuous monitoring and routine testing ensure APIs remain secure over time. Scanning and monitoring tools can track normal usage and identify any out-of-the-ordinary traffic or behaviors. Meanwhile, penetration testing confirms that these protections are working correctly and allows you to identify and remedy vulnerabilities before they’re exploited.
Partner with Cybersecurity Professionals
Navigating API security involves a lot of details, programs, and tools that need to be customized to your business’s operations and goals. Professional cybersecurity specialists have the expertise and resources needed to execute this personalization, evaluate your current security status, make improvements, and provide continued support so you can focus on core operations.
Tighten Your API Security with AIS
If hearing about API security fills you with questions like “What is an API key?” or “What is throttling?”, AIS is here to help. Our skilled techs are well-versed in the latest API threats and protections, so you can rely on us for current, effective, and personalized solutions to your API security. Don’t leave your business exposed—start planning your security with us today.