What's Happening?
API threats are growing in scale as artificial intelligence expands the potential impact of vulnerabilities. According to a report by Wallarm, 17% of the over 60,000 published vulnerabilities in 2025 were API-related. The rise of the Model Context Protocol (MCP) is identified as a significant factor in future API risks, with MCP-related vulnerabilities increasing by 270% between Q2 and Q3 2025. The report highlights that AI applications rely heavily on APIs, making API security crucial for successful AI adoption. Common API weaknesses include cross-site issues, injections, and broken access control.
Why It's Important?
The increasing scale of API threats poses significant risks to U.S. businesses and industries that rely on AI and digital technologies. As AI applications
become more prevalent, ensuring robust API security is essential to protect sensitive data and maintain operational integrity. The rise of MCP-related vulnerabilities underscores the need for comprehensive security measures and industry collaboration to address emerging threats. Failure to secure APIs could lead to severe financial and reputational damage for organizations.
What's Next?
Organizations will need to prioritize API security as part of their overall cybersecurity strategies. This may involve investing in advanced security solutions, conducting regular vulnerability assessments, and fostering collaboration between industry stakeholders to share threat intelligence. Policymakers may also consider developing regulations and standards to enhance API security and protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
