What is API security?
API security refers to the strategies and tools used to protect Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) from threats and vulnerabilities. As APIs become the backbone of modern software—connecting microservices, enabling mobile apps, and supporting third-party integrations—they become high-value targets for attackers.
Effective API security ensures that sensitive data, systems, and applications remain protected from unauthorized access, abuse, and breaches.
How can you secure APIs?
Securing APIs starts with visibility—knowing what APIs you have, where they are, and how they're being used. From there, you need to test them continuously. That includes using DAST tools like HCL AppScan to scan running APIs for vulnerabilities, even without source code. You should also use SAST or SCA when you do have access to the code or dependencies. API gateways and proper authentication (OAuth, tokens, etc.) help control access, while schema validation, rate limiting, and logging round out the defense.
What is a Shadow API?
A Shadow API is an undocumented or unmanaged API that exists outside the visibility of an organization’s IT or security teams. These APIs often arise from outdated versions, internal development, or unsanctioned deployments and pose significant security risks because they bypass standard governance, lack proper security testing, and may expose sensitive data. Identifying and regularly testing for shadow APIs is critical to maintaining a secure and compliant API environment.
What is Zombie API?
A Zombie API is an outdated or deprecated API that is still active or accessible but no longer maintained or monitored. These APIs often remain exposed due to oversight after newer versions are released or systems are upgraded. Because they are forgotten and unpatched, zombie APIs pose serious security risks, including potential data leaks and vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Regular API inventory checks and decommissioning unused endpoints are essential to prevent zombie APIs from becoming a security threat.
Can HCL AppScan test APIs without source code?
Yes, HCL AppScan can test APIs without needing access to source code.
Using its DAST capabilities AppScan can scan running APIs by ingesting OpenAPI/Swagger files, Postman collections, or WSDLs. AppScan can also learn APIs through traffic recordings or proxy integrations. AppScan on Cloud and AppScan Enterprise both support this approach and can be fully integrated in to CI/CD pipelines. For more advanced scenarios, HCL AppScan API Security can enhance API discovery and test coverage, making it ideal for securing third-party or production APIs where source access isn’t available.
What makes HCL AppScan different from other API security tools?
HCL AppScan API Security combines automated API discovery, advanced vulnerability testing, and continuous posture management to secure APIs across the SDLC. Built for scale, it protects your entire API ecosystem, detects shadow and zombie APIs and provides runtime insights that traditional scans might miss.
