Sep 28 2022

5 Books Every API Hacker Should Read

If you’re into web API security testing, then you know that API hacking books are a valuable resource. They can teach you new things, introduce you to new concepts around breaking web application programming and help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your field. That’s why I’ve put together this list of 5 essential books for any API hacker!

API security and you

So before I go through the list of book recommendations, I want to preface that if you are a security researcher who wants to conduct web API security testing, the reality is it’s just as important to focus on the web applications themselves.

As such, a crash course in web hacking fundamentals never hurts. So some of my recommendations may seem more focused on that than on breaking web application programming interfaces.

You may also notice that I also recommend a few books that focus on bounty programs and make it possible to make a living as you break APIs.

The point is, regardless of where you are in your API hacking career, these books can help. I have organized them in such a way that if you can’t afford to buy them all just yet, start from the top and work your way down.

Book #1 : Hacking APIs: Breaking Web Application Programming Interfaces

Link: Hacking APIs: Breaking Web Application Programming Interfaces

Book Review

This is one of the few books that is actually dedicated to API hacking.

This book is a great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about API security and how to hack into web applications. It provides in-depth information on how to break through various types of APIs, as well as tips on how to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly changing field. Corey also shares his own personal experiences with API hacking, which makes the content even more valuable. If you’re interested in learning more about API security and want to start from the basics, then this is the perfect book for you!

Book #2 : The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook: Finding and Exploiting Security Flaws

Link: The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook: Finding and Exploiting Security Flaws

Book Review

This book is a tomb of information. It’s the oldest book on the list and by far the largest.

The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook is an essential read for anyone looking to understand how web application vulnerabilities are discovered and exploited. The book is filled with in-depth technical information and real-world examples that will help you understand the inner workings of web applications and how to protect them from potential attacks.

One of the best features of this book is the “Hands-On” sections, which provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to find and exploit various vulnerabilities. This makes it an ideal resource for both beginner and experienced hackers alike.

If you’re looking to beef up your skills in web application security, then The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook is a must-read!

Book #3 : Web Application Security: Exploitation and Countermeasures for Modern Web Applications

Link: Web Application Security: Exploitation and Countermeasures for Modern Web Applications 1st Edition

Book Review

Sometimes before focusing on offense, we have to know defensive tactics.

This book provides in-depth coverage of all the major areas of web application security, from vulnerabilities and exploits to countermeasures and defense strategies. Written by security expert Andrew Hoffman, this book is packed with real-world examples and step-by-step instructions that will help you understand how developers protect their web applications from potential attacks.

If you’re serious about web application security, then this is the perfect book for you!

Book #4 : Bug Bounty Bootcamp: The Guide to Finding and Reporting Web Vulnerabilities

Link: Bug Bounty Bootcamp: The Guide to Finding and Reporting Web Vulnerabilities

Book Review

If you are looking at being an independent security researcher focused on web API security testing, finding high payout API bugs may be important.

Bug Bounty Bootcamp is a guide to becoming a bug bounty hunter. The book covers the basics of hunting for bugs, including how to find and report them. It also includes a number of case studies of successful bug bounty hunting, detailing methods and strategies.

In chapter 24 of the Expert Techniques section, Vicki goes deeper into discussing multiple API attack techniques.

Overall, Bug Bounty Bootcamp is an informative and well-written guide that should be of interest to anyone considering a career in API hacking through bug bounty hunting.

Book #5 : Real-World Bug Hunting: A Field Guide to Web Hacking

Link: Real-World Bug Hunting: A Field Guide to Web Hacking

Book Review

“Real-World Bug Hunting” is a brilliant resource for anyone who aspires to be a professional bug hunter. The book is written by Peter Yaworski, who is himself a professional bug hunter.

He begins by delving into the mindset of a bug hunter – what drives them to find vulnerabilities in software and systems? He then provides an overview of the bug hunting process, from identifying potential targets to writing up a report. The bulk of the book is devoted to teaching readers how to find and exploit common web application vulnerabilities.

Yaworski provides clear and concise explanations of each vulnerability, along with examples of real-world exploits. He also offers advice on how to avoid getting caught by security teams and how to maximize the value of your findings. “Real-World Bug Hunting” is an essential read for anyone who wants to make a career out of finding bugs.

Conclusion

These five books are essential readings for anyone interested in hacking APIs. They provide detailed information on how to find and exploit vulnerabilities, as well as defensive tactics and strategies. If you want to be a successful API bug bounty hunter, then these books will also give you the tools and techniques you need to get started.

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Tags: API books, InfoSec books