In security and cybersecurity, a "Rogue API" refers to an unauthorized or malicious application programming interface (API) that poses a security risk to a system or network. APIs are collections of guidelines and procedures that enable interaction and communication between various software programs. In contemporary software systems, they are necessary to allow multiple services and functionalities.

A Rogue API can manifest in several ways:

Unauthorized API Access: When a third-party or internal application accesses an API without proper authorization, it can be considered a Rogue API. It may occur due to misconfigurations, lack of appropriate access controls, or malicious intent.

Malicious API: A Rogue API can also be a deliberately created or manipulated API designed to exploit vulnerabilities in a system. Such APIs may be an entry point for cyberattacks, data breaches, or other security incidents.

Shadow APIs: These are APIs that are present in the environment of an organization but are not recognized or documented by the official body. Although employees might use them for acceptable reasons, if they are not properly managed and secured, they could endanger security.

Vulnerable APIs: APIs that have not been adequately tested or secured can become Rogue APIs if attackers exploit them. Vulnerabilities in APIs can include issues like injection attacks, broken authentication, and data exposure.

Third-party APIs: While third-party APIs are often legitimate and necessary for many applications, they can become Rogue APIs if they are not properly vetted for security or have access to sensitive data without proper safeguards.

Protecting against Rogue APIs and ensuring API security is essential in modern software ecosystems. Finding and fixing vulnerabilities entails implementing access controls, authentication methods, encryption, monitoring, and frequent security assessments. Organizations may manage and lower the risk of rogue APIs in their environments by maintaining an accurate inventory of approved APIs and thorough documentation.

An integrated platform like ThreatNG, combining External Attack Surface Management (EASM), Digital Risk Protection (DRP), and Security Ratings, would empower organizations to comprehensively identify, assess, and address the presence of Rogue APIs in their digital landscape. By offering a unified solution, ThreatNG streamlines the monitoring of exposed APIs, evaluates their potential vulnerabilities and compliance risks, and provides actionable insights to mitigate security threats associated with unauthorized, vulnerable, or shadow APIs. This consolidated approach enables organizations to proactively safeguard their digital assets and data, ensuring a more robust security posture in the evolving threat landscape.