Confidence Staveley, a female software engineer and cybersecurity expert, is being nationally recognized for her significant achievements in breaking gender barriers and excelling in traditionally male-dominated industries.
She is acknowledged as the pioneer female author of an Application Programming Interface (API) in Nigeria, particularly focusing on safeguarding biodata from breaches and other cybersecurity threats.
APIs serve as crucial interfaces that facilitate communication between different software components through established protocols and definitions, a concept outlined by Amazon Web Services.
Staveley’s book, ‘API Security for White Hat Hackers,’ aims to combat cybersecurity vulnerabilities by safeguarding sensitive biodata and online information from potential exploitation by cybercriminals seeking personal gain.
As the trailblazing female API author in Nigeria, Staveley, the founder of both CyberSafe Foundation and MerkieFence, equips data managers, web developers, and software developers with essential tools through her publication. Her goal is to promote the establishment of secure data centers incorporating cybersecurity measures as a fundamental aspect.
Recognizing her accomplishments, Christopher Romeo, the CEO of Devici and General Partner at Kerr Ventures, commended Staveley as a respected authority in the cybersecurity realm, underscoring the significance of her insights regarding APIs and their crucial role in data security and privacy.
Romeo highlighted Staveley’s extensive background in software engineering, her specialization in application security, and cybersecurity strategy. He praised her for effectively conveying complex cybersecurity concepts in a comprehensible manner to diverse audiences.
Additionally, Romeo mentioned Staveley’s academic qualifications, including an advanced diploma in software engineering and a Master’s degree in IT management from the University of Bradford.
“a formidable voice in the realm of cybersecurity and embodies the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.”
Further Speaking on being celebrated as the first female API author in Nigeria, he noted that APIs form the backbone of modern applications.
Romeo noted, “Whether you are using the web, mobile applications, or even interacting with AI services, APIs are integral to daily operations.
“Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting APIs, recognising their crucial role in the data flow and functionality of applications, as well as the gateway they provide to valuable organisational data.
“Whether you are a developer, security professional, or ethical hacker, this book is designed to assist you in securing your APIs and safeguarding your organisation’s data.
“If you examine any major breach in recent years, it is invariably linked to APIs in some manner. API Security for White Hat Hackers goes beyond its title; it provides a comprehensive exploration of API security.
“This book offers a hands-on approach to learning, focusing on practical exercises that walk readers through the process of testing APIs, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing effective solutions.”
He emphasized that by focusing on real-world scenarios, readers gain invaluable experience in bypassing authentication controls, circumventing authorisation mechanisms, and identifying common vulnerabilities using both open-source and commercial tools.
Romeo added: “I truly appreciate the meticulous attention Staveley has given to demonstrating how APIs can be compromised, while also providing essential guidance on designing and threat modelling secure APIs from inception.
“By acquiring red team/breaker knowledge of API security, you position yourself to implement security controls that safeguard your APIs effectively and, ultimately, your customers’ data.”
According to Staveley, her upcoming book, scheduled for release on July 28, 2024, has already become a best-seller on Amazon.
She highlighted that the book is designed for individuals involved in API development, maintenance, and security, aiming to safeguard API and security data from unauthorized access.
Staveley stressed that her primary focus is to enhance the security of African APIs, addressing the region’s high incidence of data breaches.
She explained, “The 13 chapters cover various topics, ranging from developers constructing APIs to cybersecurity and information security professionals in the early stages of their careers.
“It also caters to management-level cybersecurity professionals aiding boards in risk management, as well as other stakeholders involved in API development and maintenance. There is something for everyone at different stages of their career as long as you are involved with APIs.
“This book is crucial for web developers, cybersecurity professionals, and decision-makers at the management level of institutions dealing with data. The insights provided will significantly enhance their ability to develop and secure APIs.
“This is the first cybersecurity book authored by a woman. I identified a problem and chose to provide solutions through knowledge, as there’s nothing more effective in solving problems. Ensuring these problems are addressed motivated me to compile this paper.
“Within the next five years, I aim to publish the next edition. I envision this book becoming a staple on people’s shelves, serving as a guide for them.”
Staveley warned that neglecting regular API monitoring leaves vulnerabilities open to exploitation by malicious actors, emphasizing the need for proactive defense.
She advocated for a “defend by offending” approach to close security gaps. Staveley highlighted that the greatest vulnerability lies in organizations failing to implement basic security measures, such as strong usernames and passwords, and multiple layers of protection, which can be exploited by bad actors.
Effective integration of these measures is crucial to preventing attacks.
Staveley noted, “In everyday life, this translates to using two-factor authentication for our social media accounts. Unfortunately, many organisations lack these layered security approaches, which is a major
“A significant number of attacks begin with deception, such as clicking on harmful links in emails, which is a focal point of discussion in this book. For me, it was crucial to share my knowledge in a manner that empowers businesses and organisations to safeguard our data.
“This motivation drove me to write this book. Many of the insights in the book stem from my decade-long experience in the industry. Others are derived from global standards and best practices.”
“I have also developed an intentionally vulnerable API as part of this hands-on book. Readers can engage directly with this API to learn how to defend against attacks by understanding how attackers might exploit vulnerabilities.”
