APIs play a critical role in the modern software ecosystem by enabling automation and scalability through web and mobile applications and partner integrations, but they also present significant security challenges as they can expose sensitive data to potential cyberattacks. Organizations need to be aware of API security risks, which arise from vulnerabilities in design, implementation, or outdated security measures, allowing hackers to gain unauthorized access or launch malicious activities like DDoS or injection attacks. As APIs become more complex and widespread, evolving attack vectors demand vigilant and adaptive security measures, especially with the shift to cloud-native applications that rely heavily on APIs, which increases the potential attack surface. The proliferation of APIs, known as "API sprawl," makes it challenging to track all endpoints and maintain consistent security, while the use of third-party APIs introduces additional risks if not properly vetted and monitored.