5 ways to reduce exposure to API security risks
API security has become a significant concern as insecure APIs may provide attackers with access to sensitive customer data.
In recent years, several high-profile data breaches involving APIs have emphasized the need for companies to reduce the risk of unauthorized data access or leaks through an insecure API.
“Protecting APIs requires our customers to have visibility into their APIs by testing them to identify security gaps, and by managing credentials,” says Postman Head of Security and IT Joshua Scott.
For example, security teams can reduce the risk of unauthorized data access by monitoring their company’s APIs and identifying anomalous behavior, such as a high number of records returned. Ensuring strong API authentication and authorization is also crucial.
Postman recommends using strong authentication and authorization methods, such as multi-factor authentication. Companies should consider using short-lived credentials that expire within a specific timeframe, such as ephemeral tokens, which are temporary and grant limited access to data.
Below are five ways for customers, security teams, and developers to use Postman securely and reduce potential API security risks, such as data breaches and accidental data exposure:
- Protect your Postman account and data. Read the blog post “How to securely deploy Postman at scale, part 1: user management,” which covers user management features, including enforcing access controls to secure data.
- Use best practices for developer security. Read the blog post “How to securely deploy Postman at scale, part 2: information management,” which dives into information management for your account, such as using role-based access control.
- Learn about the shared responsibility model and your role. Read our “Security and compliance guide” for best practices on how to secure data and credentials in Postman.
- Secure your API keys in Postman. Read “Securely using API keys in Postman” for information on how to avoid exposing your digital account keys and handling sensitive data on the API Platform.
- Leverage API governance and security features in Postman. The “Introducing API Security in Postman v10” blog post covers configurable security rules and capabilities for teams to improve API security. Also, access our guide on security and governance features you can use to safeguard your accounts and data.
“API security is no longer a nice-to-have feature,” Joshua emphasizes. “It’s a must-have for any company that wants to protect its customers and business from lawsuits, financial risk, and reputational damage.”
Related: Use the API Security Templates
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