API Security: Protecting Access and Data
API Security: Protecting Access and Data APIs connect services and people, but they also open doors to data. A small security gap can expose user details, disrupt operations, and raise costs. Good API security blends people, processes, and technology. It focuses on who can access what, how access is granted, and how data stays protected at every step. Protecting access starts with strong authentication and clear authorization. Use proven standards like OAuth 2.0 and OpenID Connect for user access, and apply short-lived tokens with narrow scopes. For service-to-service calls, consider mutual TLS (mTLS) where possible. Treat every token as a trust certificate: validate its audience, expiry, and the specific actions allowed. Keep credentials rotating, and revoke access when needed. Favor least privilege: tokens should never grant more permission than necessary. ...