Broken object-level authorization (BOLA) is a major vulnerability that is present in many modern application programming interfaces (APIs). BOLA attacks can result in data breaches that have serious consequences, including data disclosure to unauthorized parties, data loss, or data manipulation. To prevent BOLA, programmers must implement authorization protocols that verify whether the user is authorized to perform the requested actions. Such protocols must focus on tracking the users themselves and ensuring that the users are adequately authorized to make requests and take actions. BOLA is a reminder that, as programmers explore the possibilities presented by modern APIs, they must not neglect the basics of data security.
Key Points
- Broken object-level authorization (BOLA) is a major vulnerability in modern application programming interfaces (APIs).
- BOLA attacks can result in data breaches, with the consequences depending on the target.
- To prevent BOLA, programmers must implement an authorization protocol that verifies the user’s authorization to make requests and take actions.
- BOLA is a reminder of the importance of not neglecting data security basics when innovating with modern APIs.
