India’s digital landscape is growing at an unprecedented pace, with Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) serving as critical connectors in sectors like banking, healthcare, e-commerce, and government services. However, as the adoption of APIs increases, so does the risk of cyberattacks. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool to address these security threats, ensuring a safer digital ecosystem.
Why Securing APIs Is Crucial
APIs are the backbone of modern digital applications, enabling seamless data exchange between systems. Their widespread use has also made them prime targets for cybercriminals, leading to risks like:
- Data breaches
- Financial losses
- Service disruptions
According to Pratik Shah, Managing Director of India & SAARC at F5 Networks, APIs account for nearly 90% of global web traffic, with a 460% increase in public APIs over the past decade. This rapid growth has led to a surge in security threats such as broken authentication, injection attacks, and server-side request forgery (SSRF).
Shah also highlighted that API attacks in India rose by 62% in the first half of 2024, as reported by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). These breaches not only compromise sensitive data but also threaten business stability and consumer trust.
A 2024 report by Indusface revealed alarming trends:
- APIs faced 68% more attacks than websites.
- DDoS attacks on APIs surged by 94% quarter-over-quarter.
- Bot attacks on APIs increased by 39%.
These statistics reinforce the need for advanced security solutions to protect APIs from evolving cyber threats.
How AI is Enhancing API Security
Recognizing the growing threat, CERT-In has introduced training programs for government officials and financial institutions to enhance API security awareness. Additionally, a whitepaper in collaboration with Mastercard explores how AI can be leveraged for API protection.
Traditional security methods, which rely on static rules, are often ineffective against sophisticated attacks. AI, on the other hand, provides:
- Automated threat detection – AI can proactively identify suspicious activity in real time.
- Intelligent mitigation – AI blocks or throttles potential threats without affecting legitimate users.
- Continuous learning – AI adapts to evolving cyber threats by integrating real-time intelligence.
Pratik Shah emphasized that AI-driven platforms, like those developed by F5 Networks, enable API discovery, vulnerability detection, and real-time monitoring, helping organizations safeguard their digital assets.
Similarly, Nassim Asrir, co-founder at ZeroZenX, acknowledged AI’s role in cybersecurity but noted that while AI significantly reduces API breach risks, it cannot eliminate them entirely. AI should be seen as a powerful tool rather than a complete solution.
The Future of AI-Powered API Security in India
With India’s digital economy expanding rapidly, AI-powered security solutions will become even more sophisticated. Sameer Meher, a cybersecurity expert at EY, stated:
“AI plays a big role in securing APIs in India. With digital transactions and data sharing increasing, AI helps detect threats in real-time, spot unusual activities, and prevent attacks before they cause damage.”
As AI technology evolves, organizations can expect enhanced threat detection, improved authentication, and stronger vulnerability management. By adopting AI-driven API security, India can build a resilient digital ecosystem, fostering innovation, trust, and long-term economic growth.
Conclusion
As cyber threats continue to evolve, AI is proving to be a game-changer in securing APIs. With its ability to detect anomalies, prevent attacks, and adapt to new threats, AI is helping businesses stay ahead of cybercriminals.
By embracing AI-powered API security, India can ensure a safe, efficient, and trustworthy digital landscape, paving the way for a more secure future in the digital economy.