API Standardization for Enhanced Automotive Security and Industry Progress

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) have revolutionized digital connectivity, serving as bridges between systems and platforms. SEEBURGER, as a forward-looking company, is committed to driving API standardization, especially in API security. This blog dives into our involvement in API standardization, highlighting our collaboration with the Odette API Expert Group.

In the era of global digital business, digital security and cyber security are crucial for all companies, large and small, that exchange data along the automotive supply chain. Since they offer a fast track for the automotive supply chain, more and more OEMs, suppliers and their logistics partners are using APIs as a digital gateway to easily connect services and exchange confidential and mission-critical data with their business partners. Communication via API interfaces enables them to transmit messages in real time and makes a decisive contribution to process optimization along the entire supply chain. That is why the use of business-driven APIs is a matter of course for many IT departments today. Unfortunately, due to a lack of industry standardization, the implementation of individual API security concepts costs OEMs, tier 1 and business partners time, efficiency and money.

Identify API vulnerabilities for secure data exchange

• APIs frequently handle sensitive information such as personal user data, financial transactions and business-critical data. They also provide cyber criminals an easy entry point into enterprise networks and systems. As the latest security breaches show, it is crucial to consider the associated security risks when deploying APIs with unknown vulnerabilities. API security guarantees that this data is not accessed, modified or disclosed by unauthorized parties. API security methods, such as authentication and authorization protocols, assist in preventing unauthorized users from accessing sensitive resources.
• APIs are vulnerable to a variety of attacks, including injection attacks, cross-site scripting (XSS), cross-site request forgery (CSRF) and denial-of-service (DoS). Input validation, output encoding, rate limitation and correct error handling are all security methods that can help minimize these threats and secure the API infrastructure.
• API security guarantees that data transmitted between systems is accurate. It ensures that data does not change while in transit and prevents tampering or illegal alteration. This is critical for ensuring the dependability and trustworthiness of API requests and answers.
• APIs are critical for facilitating safe interfaces across various systems, applications and services. Organizations may build a foundation of trust and confidence for partners and developers that rely on their APIs by establishing effective security measures and industry standards. This promotes cooperation and makes safe integrations easier while reducing the danger of security vulnerabilities.

API standardization is powering efficient industry networks

In the automotive sector, standardization is pivotal. It underpins efficient industry networks that enable seamless B2B integration via APIs. Standardization — a crucial factor for success in an interconnected world — accelerates adoption, streamlines processes and drives innovation.

With more than 35 years of automotive expertise as a provider of business integration and secure file transfer solutions, SEEBURGER is heavily engaged to ensure interoperability and adherence to industry standards, such as Odette, VDA or EDIFACT, which help the automotive industry streamline their supply chain practices and ensure efficient and secure data flows.

Well known for its experience in B2B integration and managed file transfer, SEEBURGER also offers API integration and management capabilities, which provide enterprises with the tools and skills they need to efficiently manage and protect their APIs. SEEBURGER API capabilities enable organizations to offer their services and data via APIs, allowing for secure and easy interactions with third-party apps, partners and developers.

SEEBURGER also supports the successful coexistence of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and APIs in the European car industry. APIs provide cutting-edge connections, while EDI’s historical function has helped build a network based on established standards. Our objective is to carefully incorporate APIs into an established ecosystem powered by standards, boosting workflows and value.

The automotive industry is using APIs more frequently to streamline particular procedures. Examples include track and trace solutions used in API projects by Daimler Truck North America, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Shanghai General Motors, all of which strive to streamline supply chains and achieve paperless transport.

The development of industrial clouds by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) is an important area of concentration. The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is fueled by these clouds, which promote data-driven initiatives and transparency across manufacturing landscapes. Real-time scenarios and new business models are made possible through real-time integration, which is made possible by APIs.

Joining forces for standardized API security along the automotive value chain

In response to the industry’s challenges, Odette International, a network of automotive supply chain professionals, has emerged as a leading advocate for secure API practices. Odette International develops standards and best practice recommendations and provides tools and services to facilitate efficient and secure data communication in the automotive supply chain. Therefore, user companies and technology providers like SEEBURGER bundle competencies in Odette expert groups.

SEEBURGER’s dedication to API standardization is tangible through our engagement with Odette International, particularly in the Odette API Expert Group. This group unites industry leaders and experts for the purpose of shaping API standards in the automotive sector. Our participation demonstrates SEEBURGER’s commitment to refining API standards, benefiting businesses and consumers alike.

Security is a cornerstone of API standardization. Our work in the API Security Group, led by Jan Cornet of SEEBURGER, centers on addressing API security concerns. The members of the Odette API Security Group analyze aspects of security, identity and access management in an API-based infrastructure to secure collaboration along the automotive supply chain. We’ve structured our efforts into two phases aimed at enhancing security in API-based data exchanges.

Phase 1 — Recommendation development

Our primary objective in Phase 1 is to create a comprehensive recommendation that covers vital aspects of API security:

• Data protection during transport
• Identity provision
• User management
• Access management
• Protection of API interfaces
• Safeguarding of internal applications

These components weave a robust security fabric that safeguards data integrity, user identities and system access.

Phase 2 — Technology and implementation oversight

Phase 2 establishes a permanent group to:

• Maintain API security recommendations
• Resolve implementation challenges
• Anticipate evolving security needs
• Promote recommendations for implementation

SEEBURGER’s API cooperation with Odette International intends to standardize APIs for the automotive sector, allowing for smooth and safe data sharing and integration between automakers, suppliers and other stakeholders. These APIs have the potential to improve interoperability, expedite communication and assist digital transformation in the automotive industry.

SEEBURGER’s participation in the API project with Odette International also involves engagement with other industry participants, such as car manufacturers, suppliers, and technology providers, to create best practices, industry standards, and API implementation guidelines. Chaired by Jan Cornet, integration expert at SEEBURGER, they have contributed to the creation of reference architectures, documentation, and tools that aid in the adoption and use of APIs within the automotive ecosystem.

APIs provide an opportunity for the automotive sector to improve integration, cooperation, and speed of adoption. Lessons from other sectors emphasize the value of proactive collaboration and standardization. As we move forward, we encourage the European automotive industry to:

• Seize API opportunities: Consider APIs to be business facilitators rather than merely technical tools.
• Work together for standardization: Encourage collaboration to achieve efficient and cost-effective adoption.
• Establish API standards: Prioritize secure communication, processing and standardization stated as key requirements by industry leaders.

The European car sector may use APIs to create a linked, secure environment that encourages innovation and efficiency, similar to what other industries have done.

Our commitment to API standardization, particularly in the field of security, demonstrates our unrelenting commitment to industry advancement. SEEBURGER plays a critical role in building a safe and interconnected future for the automotive sector by contributing to the Odette API Expert Group and actively engaging in the development of API standards. We are a light of change, supporting the progress of API standards for the benefit of all parties engaged via collaboration, innovation and the pursuit of excellence.