Unlocking the Mysteries of OWASP API Security Top 10

Even though OWASP Top 10 lists are helpful, they are not known for being clear, readable, or fun. While we have a serious post discussing the methodology, categories, and missed opportunities of the OWASP API Security Top 10 for 2023, this time we wanted to take a more light-hearted look at the top ten risks for APIs. By cutting through the formal language, we hope to better understand each API risk category.

API risk #1: Ask and you shall receive

API1:2023 Broken Object-Level Authorization (aka BOLA aka IDOR)

The primary purpose of APIs is to automate access to application data and functionality. However, ensuring that data is only accessible to authorized users and systems is crucial. Data breaches can occur when an object in your app can be freely accessed by anyone who knows the right URL and object ID, resulting in incidents like the Optus hack.

API risk #2: You don’t need to see his identification

API2:2023 Broken Authentication

Authentication is vital in APIs to verify the identity of users before granting access. Weak authentication mechanisms can allow malicious actors to bypass security measures using methods like brute-force credential stuffing or tampering with JWT tokens. Once inside, attackers can exploit the remaining top 9 risks.

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Final thoughts: Are you talking to me?

When expressed in everyday language, many of the top 10 API-related security risks may seem simple—mostly ways for attackers to gain unauthorized access. APIs serve as shortcuts to the inner workings of applications, bypassing access controls if not carefully planned from the start of development.

While it’s tempting to view the OWASP API Security Top 10 as a security checklist, its goal is to educate those involved in API development and maintenance, such as developers, designers, architects, and managers, on the importance of secure API practices.

In a perfect world, secure APIs begin with secure application design. However, in reality, APIs may not always be perfectly designed, implemented, or monitored, making tools for API discovery and security testing essential in any application security strategy.

Discover more about Invicti API Security and explore our free white paper on API Vulnerability Testing in the Real World.