Rising Importance of API Security in India’s Digital Landscape

**India Faces Growing Cybersecurity Threats Amid API Expansion**
In recent years, India has witnessed a significant increase in the use of application programming interfaces (APIs), revolutionizing how applications interact and data is shared. APIs have become integral to fostering dynamic software applications and enhancing business operations, especially with regulatory changes like open banking demanding more open access to financial data. However, this surge in API usage has also attracted cybercriminals, with India, having a population over 1.4 billion and a booming economy, becoming a prime target.
A report from Cloudflare highlights that APIs now account for more than half of internet traffic, making them a hotspot for cyberattacks. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-IN) also notes a substantial rise in API call volumes, leading to increased API abuse. Despite their critical role in the digital domain, APIs present numerous security challenges. Issues range from authentication and authorization complexities, rapid API proliferation, inadequate web application firewalls, to a general lack of shift-left approach, among others.
Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) are on the front lines, tasked with devising strategies to protect API access amidst evolving cyber threats. Solutions include enhancing visibility across APIs, adopting a Zero Trust architecture, utilizing AI for anomaly detection, deeper integration of DevSecOps, and implementing a defense in depth strategy.
To effectively manage API security risks, organizations must concentrate on governance, tools, and people. This includes establishing robust processes, investing in advanced security technologies, and fostering a security-conscious culture through training and testing. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution; strategies must be tailored to an organization’s specific needs and learning from past incidents is crucial.
The path to secure API usage in India requires a holistic approach, addressing underlying issues while embracing modern solutions. Organizations that proactively defend against threats and enforce security throughout the API lifecycle will stand stronger against potential breaches.
*Anjali Amar, Vice President and Country Head India and SAARC, Cloudflare*
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