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HOW TO DO API PENETRATION TESTING

We are asked often to test clients API’s and the demand doesn’t seem to be slowing. As more and more applications need to “talk” with other applications API’s have become a major attack vector for shady characters and the need for extensive testing is paramount. Whether you’re looking at how to pentest an API, how to discover nodejs API structures, or how to pentest rest API’s, we hope that you find this information helpful.

Why Get an API Penetration Test?



You should use an expert application programming interface (API) penetration tester to help Application Security Professionals identify and prioritize cyber security threats. You can do this without stressing your budget or having to become a specialized security expert yourself.

These testers can supplement your existing security efforts, so you can determine and safely identify a quantifiable level of threat. They can help you navigate and resolve vulnerabilities and gaps, and comply with local, state, and federal regulatory requirements.

Enhanced Clarity & Significantly Improved Security

All of this comes at a reasonable price that allows you to leverage our best practices, technical expertise, and scalable infrastructure.

API Pentest Service Levels


APIs are generally tested in conjunction with networks, applications, IoT devices, ICS/SCADA, databases, mobile, WIFI, Web Services, and almost anything else you may need to be tested. Additionally, you can test as HEAVY or as light as you prefer. Typical testing levels can include:

  • Level 0: Vulnerability Scan

  • Level 1: Vulnerability Assessment

  • Level 2: Penetration Test (default)

  • Level 3: Expanded Pentest

API Pentest Phases API Reconnaissance Phase


  • Represents the information gathering and enumeration phase of an attack

  • Data is collected passively from applications through automated and manual means

  • Application functionality is determined and documented through a combination of calls submissions, sample project package (POSTMAN, SOAP, etc.) analysis, and WS/API documentation reviews

  • Key parameters are documented and noted for exposure / further follow on

  • Web service application traffic is passed through a proxy and interrogated for further detail

API Verification Phase