OWASP TOP 10 API
The OWASP Top 10 API Security is a companion project to the OWASP Top 10 Web Application Security and focuses specifically on the top security risks associated with Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). APIs are essential for modern software applications as they enable communication and data exchange between different software components and services. However, they can also introduce security vulnerabilities if not properly secured. The OWASP Top 10 API Security project aims to raise awareness of these risks and provide guidance on mitigating them.
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, here are the top 10 API security risks as outlined by OWASP:
Broken Object-Level Authorization (BOLA): This risk, also known as Insecure Direct Object References (IDOR), occurs when an attacker can manipulate object references in API requests to gain unauthorized access to data or resources. Proper authorization checks should be in place to prevent this.
Excessive Data Exposure: APIs may unintentionally expose sensitive data or provide more information than necessary. Developers should ensure that APIs only return the data needed by the client and avoid overexposing sensitive information.
Broken Authentication: Just like in web applications, broken authentication in APIs can lead to unauthorized access. API endpoints should have strong authentication mechanisms, and developers should avoid common issues like weak password policies and session management flaws.
Lack of Resources & Rate Limiting: Without proper rate limiting and resource allocation, APIs can be vulnerable to abuse through brute force attacks, causing denial-of-service (DoS) or account takeover. Implementing rate limiting and resource quotas can mitigate this risk.
Broken Function-Level Authorization: This risk arises when an API does not properly enforce authorization controls on specific functions or actions, allowing attackers to execute unauthorized actions. Granular authorization checks should be implemented.
Mass Assignment: Mass assignment vulnerabilities occur when an attacker can manipulate API requests to modify more data than intended. Developers should validate and sanitize input to prevent unintended data changes.
Security Misconfiguration: Misconfigurations in API settings or permissions can expose sensitive data or grant unauthorized access. Developers should review and configure API security settings correctly.
Injection: Injection attacks can also affect APIs, just as they do with web applications. Proper input validation and parameterized queries are essential to prevent SQL injection, NoSQL injection, and other injection attacks.
Improper Asset Management: APIs may not adequately track or manage assets (e.g., tokens, keys, or secrets), leading to unauthorized access or data breaches. Developers should have robust asset management practices in place.
Insufficient Logging & Monitoring: Inadequate logging and monitoring in APIs can make it challenging to detect and respond to security incidents. Implement comprehensive logging and monitoring to identify and respond to threats.
It's important to note that the threat landscape evolves over time, and new API security risks may emerge. Therefore, organizations and development teams should stay updated with the latest OWASP API Security recommendations and best practices to protect their APIs effectively. Additionally, conducting thorough security testing and assessments of APIs is crucial to identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities.
Last updated