API Security
Testing
APIs are the backbone of modern platforms. We assess your REST and GraphQL APIs for vulnerabilities that bypass front-end controls entirely.
Overview
API Penetration Testing API penetration testing focuses on identifying vulnerabilities in your application programming interfaces. APIs are often the backbone of modern web and mobile platforms and are increasingly targeted by attackers due to the sensitive data they handle and the direct access they provide to core functionality. A proper assessment can help you secure your APIs before someone else tries to break in.
Why It Matters
APIs often bypass the usual front-end layers that enforce security on websites. They interact directly with databases, user accounts and third-party systems which means a single overlooked flaw could result in serious data loss or unauthorised access. Whether you are building an internal service or exposing APIs to customers or partners, it is essential to ensure they are secure by design. Many data breaches are caused by weak or misconfigured APIs. These vulnerabilities can include broken authentication, improper access control excessive data exposure and business logic flaws that cannot be detected through basic scans.
In Summary
APIs are a powerful way to connect systems and deliver features but they also present unique security challenges. API penetration testing allows you to take control of these risks and secure your data at the source. By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities early you can avoid costly breaches and ensure your services are safe resilient and ready for growth. Whether your API powers a mobile app, an online service or integrations with third parties, regular testing is essential to maintain trust and protect your organisation from evolving threats.
Why Organisations Choose This Assessment
Protect Sensitive Data
APIs often expose data such as personal details, payment information or authentication tokens
Avoid Downtime and Disruption
Exploitable APIs can be used to manipulate services or crash systems
Meet Compliance Standards
Security testing of APIs supports requirements for GDPR, ISO 27001 and other industry standards that expect you to protect user data effectively
Build Developer Confidence
A secure API allows developers to build with confidence knowing the underlying foundation has been tested against real world threats
What the Assessment Involves
API penetration testing begins by reviewing the documentation and structure of the API. This includes understanding endpoints request methods, authentication flows and any input or output parameters. The tester will simulate the behaviour of a malicious actor attempting to exploit weaknesses in how the API is built and how it handles requests. This can involve sending crafted requests to see if data can be accessed without proper permissions or checking if rate limits can be bypassed. The testing focuses on common weaknesses such as broken object level authorisation, improper input validation and excessive privilege escalation. The process includes testing both authenticated and unauthenticated access checking for misconfigured endpoints and reviewing how error messages and status codes are handled. After the assessment you will receive a detailed report outlining all findings with clear remediation steps prioritised by severity.
At a Glance
Documentation Review
Reviewing API docs, endpoint structure, authentication flows and parameters.
Unauthenticated Testing
Assessing exposed endpoints and misconfigured public access.
Authenticated Testing
Identifying privilege escalation and broken object level authorisation.
Business Logic Testing
Testing rate limiting, function-level authorisation and unexpected inputs.
Report & Retest
Risk-rated findings with proof-of-concept requests. Free retest included.