Real-world examples of API circumvention attacks
The Parler API hack that occurred in January 2021 involved a security breach where Parler’s API design flaw led to the exposure of user data. The vulnerability stemmed from the absence of authentication measures in the API, allowing unauthorized access to user information.
During the hack, malicious actors exploited this vulnerability by guessing the URLs where private data was stored on Parler’s servers. Without needing to log in, they were able to directly request and download sensitive user content, including posts, images, videos, and other shared data.
It’s important to note that the exact method used in the Parler API hack remains speculative, with different theories proposed. While initial speculation suggested stolen admin credentials, the prevailing theory, supported by security experts and reported by The Startup, suggests a different scenario.
The lack of access restrictions in Parler’s...
