APIs are essential for connecting systems, partners, and applications in an increasingly interconnected digital ecosystem. But many organizations do not have a complete view of the APIs that are actually in use in their environment, including those that have been forgotten, poorly documented, or created without the knowledge of security teams.
This technological “blind spot” creates dangerous vulnerabilities, making compliance difficult, increasing the risk of breaches, and compromising the entire cybersecurity protection strategy. It is in this scenario that API Discovery becomes indispensable for security and compliance.
The Invisible Challenge: Hidden and Forgotten APIs
With the acceleration of digital integrations, APIs emerge from all sides: created by internal developers, made available by external partners, deployed in local applications, or hosted in cloud or hybrid environments.
However, not all of these APIs go through formal documentation, approval, and registration processes. Often, IT and security teams simply don’t know they exist, and what isn’t visible cannot be protected.
These untracked APIs, known as “shadow APIs” or hidden APIs, represent a serious threat. They can be outdated, vulnerable, open to attack, and outside corporate security policies. The risk is aggravated when we talk about complex environments, with multiple providers, microservices, and external integrations that multiply rapidly.
API Discovery: What It Is and How It Works
API Discovery is the process of automatically identifying all APIs present in a corporate environment, whether on-premise, in the cloud, hybrid, or external. Specialized API Discovery tools scan network traffic, detect active endpoints, catalog known and hidden APIs, analyze their behaviors, and create an up-to-date inventory.
This mapping is the basis for:
- Defining security and compliance policies aligned with the reality of the environment.
- Identifying vulnerabilities and gaps before they are exploited.
- Standardizing authentication, authorization, and encryption practices.
- Monitoring changes and risks in real-time.
- Ensuring that integrations are in compliance with business objectives.
Without an efficient API Discovery process, any security strategy will be incomplete, as it is based on a wrong or, worse, incomplete map.
Benefits of API Discovery for Security and Compliance
In addition to technical risks, there are also legal implications. Regulations like LGPD, GDPR, and others require companies to have control over the data that circulates in their environments, including when transferred via APIs. A company that is unaware of the APIs it has can hardly guarantee regulatory compliance, exposing itself to fines, sanctions, and reputational damage from corporate data or customer data breaches.
API Discovery is, therefore, not just a technical tool but a strategic ally to keep the company secure, in compliance, and prepared for the challenges of the digital ecosystem.
Protect Your APIs with the Experts: Altasnet
Mapping, managing, and protecting APIs in complex environments is not a simple task. It requires cutting-edge tools, specialized knowledge, and a strategy well-aligned with the company’s objectives. That’s why Altasnet offers advanced solutions for API Discovery, security, and digital governance, ensuring that no vulnerability goes unnoticed.
Don’t let invisible APIs compromise your company’s security and compliance. Talk to an Altasnet specialist or call via WhatsApp and see how API Discovery can shield your company from invisible risks and ensure full compliance.
