What characterizes "secure APIs"?

Secure APIs are characterized by their design, which incorporates security measures specifically crafted to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches. This involves implementing various security protocols and practices, such as authentication, authorization, encryption, and input validation. By including these features, secure APIs ensure that only legitimate users can access the data and that any data transmitted over the API is not vulnerable to interception by malicious actors. This focus on security helps to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the information exchanged between applications, making them resilient against common vulnerabilities and attacks.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what makes APIs secure. While speed, ease of use, and documentation are important aspects of API usability and effectiveness, they do not directly relate to the security features essential for protecting data and preventing unauthorized access. Additionally, the notion of risk-free data sharing does not align with the realities of security, as all sharing inherently carries some level of risk that must be managed through proper security measures.