How do you align API testing with security testing for QA?

API testing involves verifying the functionality, performance, reliability, and compatibility of application programming interfaces (APIs) facilitating communication between software components or systems. On the other hand, security testing aims to identify and mitigate risks related to unauthorized access, data breaches, or malicious attacks on software applications or their APIs. Both types of testing contribute to ensuring the software meets quality standards and user expectations.

1.Gain a deep understanding of API authentication methods to ensure secure access. 2.Ensure that data transmitted through APIs is encrypted using secure protocols. 3.Regularly scan API dependencies for known vulnerabilities and update components accordingly. 4.Conduct regular security audits of API endpoints to identify and address potential risks.

Gain a deep understanding of the architecture and design of the APIs you are testing. Work closely with security experts to define security requirements for your APIs. Identify potential threats and vulnerabilities specific to API communication. Utilize security scanning tools to identify common vulnerabilities such as injection attacks, broken authentication and authorization issues. Regularly scan APIs for vulnerabilities using tools like OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite or other API security testing tools. Ensure that data transmitted between system through APIs is encrypted using secure protocols such as HTTPs. Implement tests to check for rate limiting and throttling mechanisms to prevent abuse or attacks such as DDoS.

API testing increases is a tool to control and check the impurities profile along with physical and chemical and characterisation , as one batch of API can be used in manufacturing of multiple batches of drug products in formulation. In addition, the suitability of the method and the ability to determine characteristic impurities at its quantification. Recently, there has been a large numbers of withdrawals caused by nitrosamine drug substance-related impurities (NDSRIs). The US (FDA) requires that manufacturers establish whether nitrosamines, including NDSRIs, could be present in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and drug products. It is needed to develop a method to control the NDSRI at its acceptable range in APIs.

Aligning API testing with security testing in QA involves a comprehensive strategy to ensure the robustness of functional & security aspects. Begin by identifying potential security vulnerabilities in the API design, like-improper authentication or authorization mechanisms. Use tools like ZAP or Burp Suite to perform security scans & pen testing on the API endpoints. Integrate security-specific test cases within the overall API test suite, covering areas like input validation, encryption, & data transmission. Regularly update security testing protocols to align with new threats & compliance. Collaboration between QA & security teams is crucial to address vulnerabilities effectively & enhance overall resilience of the API against threats.

Aligning API testing with security testing is crucial to ensure the overall integrity and reliability of an application. APIs serve as a gateway for data exchange between different software components, making them susceptible to security vulnerabilities. Conducting API tests with a security focus helps identify potential threats such as injection attacks, unauthorized access, and data breaches. By integrating security testing into API testing processes, organizations can proactively address vulnerabilities, fortify their application against potential cyber threats, and safeguard sensitive data. This alignment enhances the robustness of the entire software ecosystem, contributing to a more secure and resilient application.

Enhance API test cases to include security tests by involving checking for proper authentication mechanisms, authorization checks, input validation to prevent injection attacks and encryption of sensitive data. Verify that the API properly enforces authentication and authorization mechanisms. Test input fields to ensure they are properly validated to prevent SQL injection & cross-site scripting(XSS). Test API Sessions are securely managed & tokens are not vulnerable to theft & tampering. Test API rate limiting mechanisms to prevent DDoS attacks. Verify sensitive API data is encrypted during transmission. Utilize security scanning tools such as OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite etc. to automate the detection of security vulnerabilities in APIs

Here are few points to consider while aligning API testing with security testing: 1. User Authentication: Check that only authorized users can access your APIs using secure methods like API keys or tokens. 2. Data Protection: Ensure that data sent through your APIs is securely encrypted (use HTTPS). 3. Input Validation: Make sure your APIs can handle inputs correctly to prevent common security issues, avoid revealing sensitive information in error messages. 4. Access Controls: Control and limit access to sensitive API areas based on user roles. 5. Error Handling: Ensure error messages from your APIs don't expose sensitive details. 6. Security Standards: Align your API security with industry standards (e.g., OWASP API Security Top 10)

Aligning API testing with security testing in QA is crucial for robust software. 1. Start by integrating security checks within API testing scenarios. 2. Verify authentication mechanisms, encrypt sensitive data, and perform input validation to prevent common vulnerabilities. 3. Employ tools like OWASP ZAP or Burp Suite to scan APIs for potential security risks. 4. Collaborate with security experts to define and execute comprehensive test cases addressing authentication flaws, data exposure, and potential exploits. 5. Regularly update security testing protocols to align with evolving API changes. Integrating security into the API testing, QA ensures that software not only functions correctly but also withstand potential security threats