API Public Launch Security Checklist

TL;DR

Public APIs face constant automated attacks. Before launch, ensure robust authentication (API keys or OAuth), aggressive rate limiting, comprehensive input validation, clear versioning, and security documentation. Every endpoint is an attack surface when your API is public.

Authentication and Authorization 5

API key management worksUsers can create, rotate, and revoke keys.

OAuth 2.0 implemented correctlyIf using OAuth, follow RFC specs precisely.

Scopes limit access appropriatelyLeast privilege for each API key or token.

Key hashing, not plaintext storageStore API keys like passwords (hashed).

Auth errors don't leak infoSame response for invalid vs. revoked keys.

Rate Limiting and Abuse Prevention 5

Rate limits per API keyConfigurable limits that prevent abuse.

Rate limit headers includedX-RateLimit-* headers in responses.

Endpoint-specific limitsExpensive operations have stricter limits.

Abuse detection in placeDetect and block suspicious patterns.

Graceful limit handling429 responses with retry-after guidance.

API Security Hardening 6

Input validation on all endpointsValidate types, lengths, formats strictly.

Output encoding consistentProper JSON encoding, no injection risks.

Versioning strategy clear/v1/ in URLs or headers, documented deprecation.

Error responses are safeNo stack traces or internal details in errors.

CORS configured correctlyOnly allow necessary origins.

Security documentation publishedAuth guide, rate limits, security contact.

Should I use API keys or OAuth?

For server-to-server, API keys are fine. For user-facing apps where you need delegated access, use OAuth 2.0. Many APIs offer both for different use cases.

How aggressive should rate limiting be?

Start conservative (lower limits) and increase based on legitimate use patterns. It's easier to raise limits than to deal with abuse. Provide clear upgrade paths for high-volume users.

What's the most common API security mistake?

Broken object-level authorization (BOLA). APIs often let users access resources by ID without checking ownership. Always verify the requesting user has access to the specific resource.

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API Public Launch Security Checklist: 16 Items Before Opening Your API

TL;DR

Authentication and Authorization 5

Rate Limiting and Abuse Prevention 5

API Security Hardening 6

API Security Ready