External API penetration testing
Strengthening APIs to speed up growth
We find gaps before an internal or external hacker does to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches and strengthen your API.
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Poorly secured APIs allow attackers to exploit not only the API itself, but any and every application associated with it. Prevent unauthorized access or data breaches with our API penetration testing.
Industry standard processes for API improvement
Each engagement follows a structured, OWASP-based methodology—tailored to your API.
Planning and preparation
We start the assessment by reviewing the API documentation. The tester then meets with you to discuss areas of concern. Rhymetec typically tests against two API keys during an assessment, this provides a balance between coverage and time required to test the API.
Discovery
Discovery of different parameters and options available to the API Endpoints are reviewed. Additional methods are tested to see if undocumented functions exist that could bypass access controls. Brute forcing of paths is performed to find additional undocumented routes.
Penetration attempt and exploitation
Both automated and manual testing are performed to determine weakness in the API. The OWASP API Top 10 is used as a guide for the tester to discover and exploit vulnerabilities in the system. Additionally, general system weaknesses are reviewed and best practices authentication such as tokens is performed.
Analysis and reporting
The tester will input findings into the internal documentation system as the test progresses. Examples of exploits and weaknesses are presented in a standardized report that include details about findings and how to remediate them. The report is created with both an executive summary for C-Level staff and detailed findings areas where developers can take action on findings.
Retest (Included Depending on Test Type)
A retesting window allows you to work on findings. The tester will work with you if any questions arise regarding the original finding and retest the original findings requested. At the end of the retesting window, a new report is created with updated progress.
Insights that speed up innovation
API penetration testing validates the security of your methods and corresponding data
Proactively identify vulnerabilities and attack vectors within systems and web applications that could be leveraged by adversaries
We work to ensure the functionality of the business logic remains intact
Data is safely transferred from web applications or mobile applications to other systems or databases
Building regular web API updates and frequent testing into your workflow will help ensure a dependable performance and prevent the build-up of costly remediation
APIs are ideal targets for attackers due to their in depth documentation
Findings for forward motion
At the end of the assessment, Rhymetec will provide a report outlining overall posture and recommendations for improvement. Results include:
- Kick off call with team
- Final and Executive Summary
- Immediate notification of critical findings
- Detailed Findings and Remediation
- Executive Presentation of initial findings
- Retesting of initial findings
- A final report with updated findings
Have a question?
We can help.
Why is an API Penetration Test important?
Poorly secured APIs allow attackers to exploit not only the API itself, but any and every application associated with it. Our goal is to find gaps before an internal or external hacker does, and report them to strengthen the API and prevent unauthorized access or data breaches across your systems and applications.
How long does an API Penetration Test take?
Almost all of our API Penetration Tests take approximately one week for initial testing. Upon notification of critical findings coupled with an executive presentation of initial findings, plus details for remediation, our team will execute a retest at no additional cost to you.
What does an API Penetration Test entail?
For each type of API endpoint, our security experts will fully review any documentation and examine all the requests, headers, and parameters. We will also consider your industry and gather additional information about infrastructure and the full software stack. While malicious actors can determine these details with enough time and energy, we request this level of detailed information specific about your environment because the more we know about your API methods, the better value we can give you on your API security testing engagement.
What is an API?
An API (Application Programming Interface) is a data exchange used by web applications to transfer information between systems. APIs are used by programmers in mobile applications and web applications.
Why is an API Penetration Test important?
Poorly secured APIs allow attackers to exploit not only the API itself, but any and every application associated with it. Our goal is to find gaps before an internal or external hacker does, and report them to strengthen the API and prevent unauthorized access or data breaches across your systems and applications.
What does an API Penetration Test entail?
For each type of API endpoint, our security experts will fully review any documentation and examine all the requests, headers, and parameters. We will also consider your industry and gather additional information about infrastructure and the full software stack. While malicious actors can determine these details with enough time and energy, we request this level of detailed information specific about your environment because the more we know about your API methods, the better value we can give you on your API security testing engagement.
How long does an API Penetration Test take?
Almost all of our API Penetration Tests take approximately one week for initial testing. Upon notification of critical findings coupled with an executive presentation of initial findings, plus details for remediation, our team will execute a retest at no additional cost to you.
What is an API?
An API (Application Programming Interface) is a data exchange used by web applications to transfer information between systems. APIs are used by programmers in mobile applications and web applications.