Implement Secure API Practices

[ariel-frischer]

Implement Secure API Practices

Description

Enhance the security of our API endpoints by implementing best practices such as rate limiting, input validation, proper error handling, HTTPS enforcement, and API key authentication. This task aims to improve the overall security posture of our API and protect sensitive data.

Acceptance Criteria

• All API endpoints use HTTPS
• Rate limiting is implemented for all endpoints
• Input validation is in place for all API inputs
• Proper error handling is implemented, avoiding exposure of sensitive information
• API key authentication is implemented for secure access
• Sensitive data is not exposed in API responses
• All changes are thoroughly tested and documented

Implementation Details

1. Configure HTTPS:

   • Obtain an SSL/TLS certificate from a trusted Certificate Authority
   • Configure the web server to use HTTPS for all API endpoints
   • Implement HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) headers

2. Implement rate limiting:

   • Use a rate limiting middleware (e.g., express-rate-limit for Node.js)
   • Set appropriate limits based on endpoint sensitivity and expected usage
   • Implement response headers to inform clients about rate limit status

3. Add input validation:

   • Use a validation library (e.g., Joi for Node.js)
   • Create validation schemas for all API inputs
   • Implement validation middleware for all routes

4. Improve error handling:

   • Create a centralized error handling middleware
   • Define custom error classes for different types of errors
   • Ensure that error responses do not include sensitive information

5. Implement API key authentication:

   • Generate and securely store API keys for clients
   • Create middleware to validate API keys on protected routes
   • Implement key rotation and revocation mechanisms

6. Protect sensitive data:

   • Review all API responses to identify sensitive data
   • Implement data masking or exclusion for sensitive fields
   • Use encryption for storing and transmitting sensitive data

7. Testing and documentation:

   • Write unit tests for new security features
   • Perform security testing (e.g., penetration testing)
   • Update API documentation to reflect new security measures

Dependencies

• Access to the production environment for SSL/TLS certificate installation
• Approval for any necessary changes to the API structure or response format

Sources

• OWASP API Security Top 10: https://owasp.org/www-project-api-security/
• NIST Guidelines for Securing Web Services: https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/SP/nistspecialpublication800-95.pdf

Estimated Time

40 hours

Additional Notes

• Coordinate with the operations team for any necessary infrastructure changes
• Consider implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) for additional protection
• Plan for a phased rollout to minimize potential disruptions to existing API consumers

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