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Enhancing API Security: StackHawk Launches Sensitive Data Identification

In an era where data breaches are becoming more common, StackHawk, an innovative API security platform, has taken a significant step forward by launching a new feature: Sensitive Data Identification. This tool is designed to provide security teams with critical visibility into high-risk APIs across their entire code repositories.

Understanding the Challenge

Security teams today face a monumental challenge with the expanding boundaries of their API landscapes. It's a striking reality that many organizations are only aware of approximately 10% of their API attack surface. This lack of visibility can leave them exposed to significant security risks, especially in sectors such as healthcare and finance, where compliance and safeguarding sensitive information are paramount. Joni Klippet, CEO of StackHawk, remarked, “Security teams are overwhelmed by expanding API landscapes they can't see.”

The latest feature aims to shed light on these previously hidden areas by identifying shadow APIs, zombie APIs, and ghost APIs—those that have either fallen out of active development or bypass traditional gates—all contributing to the security risks lurking within an organization’s ecosystem.

The Role of Sensitive Data Identification

By leveraging StackHawk's existing API Discovery capabilities, this new function allows teams to pinpoint APIs that handle sensitive data such as Personally Identifiable Information (PII), cardholder data, and health-related information. This identification is based on both the sensitivity of the data and the frequency of code changes.

Security teams can now prioritize their testing efforts effectively. For instance, Brian Anderson, a Technical Manager at Unlimited Systems, stated, “With visibility into high-risk vulnerabilities and the APIs that handle sensitive data, I can prioritize testing what matters most.” This practical approach ensures that when the safety of sensitive data is at risk, teams can act swiftly to mitigate potential breaches.

A Complete API Landscape

Unlike traditional security measures that focus solely on public endpoints, StackHawk's approach is comprehensive. It examines the entire API landscape, from legacy systems to evolving applications, exposing the complete attack surface. This operational ethos ensures that no critical API remains untested, thereby reinforcing the organization's overall security framework.

Recognition of StackHawk’s impactful contributions hasn’t gone unnoticed. The platform was recently awarded the title of outstanding API security platform at the Global Infosec Awards during RSA 2025, further establishing its reputation in the industry.

Conclusion

With the modern business landscape growing more complex and interconnected, the need for robust API security solutions has never been greater. StackHawk is positioning itself as a leader in this field, making strides in transforming how organizations approach API security testing. By focusing on visibility and proactive risk management, companies can not only protect sensitive data but also ensure compliance with industry regulations, thereby safeguarding their reputations and client trust. To further explore the possibilities with Sensitive Data Identification, StackHawk invites users to join their office hours session on June 25th.

To learn more about StackHawk's offerings and the new features, visit www.stackhawk.com and kickstart your journey toward impenetrable API security today! Let's prioritize secure APIs together.