Understanding APIs and the Role They Play in Identity Protection

Estimated Reading Time: 4 Minutes

In today's interconnected digital world, APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) play a crucial role in enabling seamless communication and integration between different software and operating systems. APIs are very common and are leveraged in many software and SaaS-based technologies. So, whether you’re a tech-savvy developer, forward-thinking business executive, or simply curious about the role APIs can play in enabling you to offer identity and personal cyber protection, understanding APIs is crucial to staying ahead of the competition and delighting your customers with new features and products that you don’t necessarily have to build yourself!

In this blog, we'll dig into what an API is and how using them impacts the future of identity and cyber protection.

What is an API?

In the simplest terms, an API is a code that allows two or more software systems to communicate with each other. This code establishes a set of rules and protocols that define how these software systems exchange data and perform specific actions. When a developer sends a request through an API to another software system, it triggers a specific action, or fetches desired data from the target application. The API processes the request, interacts with the relevant components of the target system, and sends back a response containing the requested information or confirmation of the performed action.

Okay, here’s an example: weather data. Weather snippets are commonplace and can be found on all platforms, like Apple’s weather app or your smart home device (thank you, smart refrigerator). Apple isn’t in the “weather business” – at least not yet! – so, working with a third party to source this information is an easy way for the company to still provide this valuable data to their consumers.

In short, APIs allow developers to utilize existing functions and data from one application in another existing application without the need to create a new product from scratch.

What are Some Other Real-World Examples of APIs?

Because of their ability to enable developers to leverage existing functions and data from one system into another, APIs prove to be powerful tools in the digital landscape. And they’re more common than you may think! Here are a few examples of real-world scenarios where APIs are used.

• Universal Logins. For many applications and online accounts, APIs allow users to log in using their Facebook, Twitter, iCloud, or Google profiles, eliminating the need to create new passwords and usernames.
  
  
• Internet of Things (IoT) Devices. Smart devices can utilize APIs in different ways. For example, a smart refrigerator may use an API to connect internal cameras to another application that can show users the contents inside their refrigerator.
  
  
• Map Applications. APIs enable comprehensive location-based services within mapping applications, such as giving directions and alerting users about traffic warnings.
  
  
• SaaS Applications. APIs are also commonly used in SaaS products. For example, CRMs like HubSpot allow users to integrate other software like messaging, social media, and email into one application.

And for clients that want to maximize control over their customer’s identity protection experience, the Iris Identity Protection API is the perfect solution!

The Iris Identity Protection API: Enhancing Your Customers' Identity Protection Experience

The Identity Protection API is the ideal solution for organizations seeking to offer their consumers top-notch identity and cyber protection services without building a new portal, app, or software.

By integrating Iris' identity and data protection features into an existing product, organizations can:

• Embed specific features into an existing digital environment. You have complete control to build the user interface and use whatever terminology you need to best serve your customers.
  
  
• Customize fields. Select which types of personal data make the most sense to offer your customers. Then, customize the placement, sequence, and titling fields however you like.
  
  
• Deliver identity alerts. You know your users’ preferences the best. So, whether you want to communicate alerts via SMS, email, or in-app – it’s up to you.
  
  
• Provide customers peace of mind. Your customers’ data protection is our number one priority, which is why we utilize encryption and hashing to keep sensitive data secure. Plus, we’ve passed current compliance audits for PCI DSS Level 1, SOC 2 Type 1, and CSA STAR Level 2 standards.

Leverage the distinctive Iris Identity Protection API to power your own identity monitoring and alert features and provide your end users with top-notch protection services. This seamless integration also eliminates the need for customers to download new apps or products in order to access their identity and personal cyber protection services, driving traffic back to your app or online account and ultimately helping to increase utilization.

Essentially, you can take our data and incorporate it into your product. It’s as easy as that!

Boost your brand’s customer loyalty and engagement and gain a competitive edge by integrating in-demand identity protection features into your product. Plus, with our flexible enrollment and solution options, you can create the program that best fits your customers’ needs.

Click here to learn more about the Iris Identity Protection API to learn more about the Iris Identity Protection API, and request to speak with us to get started today!

Is an API not the right fit for your organization? No worries, we have other experience options to help you deliver identity and cyber protection in the way that makes the most sense for your business.