API Security 2023 Status Check

API security company Traceable has unveiled its 2023 State of API Security Report. The study provides a comprehensive global perspective on the state of API security, exposing critical vulnerabilities and their far-reaching consequences.

The report, based on insights from 1629 cybersecurity experts across the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union, paints a concerning picture of the API security landscape.

The most alarming revelations is the sharp increase in API-related data breaches. Within the past two years, 60% of organizations surveyed reported at least one breach, with a substantial 74% experiencing three or more incidents.

DDoS attacks emerged as the primary method, accounting for 38% of breaches. This, coupled with other attack vectors, significantly expands organizations’ potential attack surfaces, according to 58% of respondents.

Most businesses are navigating these treacherous waters with a significant blind spot, unprepared and underestimating the very real threats associated with APIs.

A lack of understanding and confidence in API security is also highlighted. Only 38% of experts felt capable of discerning the nuances of API activities, user behaviours and data flows. Traditional security solutions, including Web Application Firewalls (WAFs), came under scrutiny, with 57% doubting their effectiveness in distinguishing genuine from fraudulent API activity.

Looking ahead, 61% of respondents anticipate escalating API-related risks in the next two years. Organizations are grappling with challenges such as API sprawl (48%) and the accurate inventory management of APIs (39%). On average, organizations maintain 127 third-party API connections, yet only 33% expressed confidence in securing these external threats.

It’s time that API security is elevated from the server room to the boardroom. Only by doing so can we hope to stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape.