More hackers are exploiting sensitive data through web applications and APIs as many companies fail to monitor these vulnerabilities. Unless organizations learn how to defend against website security dangers, they put their data and infrastructure at risk.
Here are the top ways you can mitigate web application and application programming interface (API) security threats:
Have a Web Application Firewall in Place
Threat actors use denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks to target unmonitored web applications. This method floods a single server with malicious traffic. It blocks real users from accessing connected sites and services. As a result, hackers can gain access to off-limits information. Web application firewalls (WAF) are the first line of defense against DDoS attacks. WAF can detect and block malicious traffic.
Use Posture Management and API Discovery
APIs are useful for businesses when creating better products. But because of their popularity, hackers are taking advantage of them. Organizations need to monitor their APIs closely, and one way to do so is through API discovery. It involves identifying API resources and using them to close loopholes in your software. Posture management can also help pinpoint the most dangerous API risks.
Hire an Expert to Perform Manual Penetration
Manual penetration is one of the most effective ways to protect your organization against web application and API threats. If you don't have a security expert, assign one who can perform this task. The job involves screening for vulnerabilities, doing security audits, and watching for malicious activities. You can also use automation to complement the manual checks. That way, your organization is protected from all angles.
Use Open Authorization
Open authorization (OAuth) is a framework you can use within your system for additional security. It requires your consent before an application can interact with others on your behalf. You don't have to reveal your password. In addition, OAuth implements a two-factor authentication system to block unauthorized users. You can also opt for time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) as an alternative.
Encrypt All Sensitive Data
Every piece of private information your APIs handle should be encrypted. Man-in-the-middle (MiTM) attacks are rampant among sites with unprotected data. Threat actors intercept information while being transferred from one party to another. If it's unencrypted, they can easily use it for malicious activities. One way to prevent this is by equipping your site with a secure sockets layer (SSL), which establishes secure links between networked devices.
As a business owner, you need to identify the vulnerabilities in your network to better respond to the rapid increase in web security threats. You must also think of possible attack scenarios and develop countermeasures. When you implement a holistic security strategy, you can deter various forms of API and web application attacks from damaging your operations and reputation.
