API Security Testing and Validation

Comprehensive security testing throughout the API development lifecycle is essential for identifying vulnerabilities before they reach production environments.

Security Testing Methodologies

Static Application Security Testing (SAST)

• Source code analysis for security vulnerabilities
• Integration with development workflows
• Early detection of coding errors
• Automated security policy enforcement

Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST)

• Runtime vulnerability scanning
• Black-box testing approach
• Automated penetration testing
• Production environment simulation

Interactive Application Security Testing (IAST)

• Real-time vulnerability detection
• Combination of SAST and DAST benefits
• Low false positive rates
• Detailed vulnerability context

Automated Security Testing

CI/CD Pipeline Integration

• Security testing in every build
• Automated vulnerability scanning
• Security gate controls
• Continuous compliance validation

API Security Testing Tools

• OWASP ZAP for automated scanning
• Burp Suite for manual testing
• Custom security test frameworks
• Cloud-based security testing platforms

Penetration Testing and Red Team Exercises

API-Specific Penetration Testing

• Business logic testing
• Authorization bypass attempts
• Rate limiting validation
• Data exposure assessment

Red Team Simulation

• Real-world attack scenarios
• Social engineering integration
• Multi-vector attack chains
• Incident response validation

Vulnerability Management

Vulnerability Assessment Process

• Regular security assessments
• Risk-based prioritization
• Patch management workflows
• Third-party component tracking