In today’s digital landscape, the importance of security cannot be overstated, particularly in the retail and e-commerce sectors where customer data is constantly at risk. Hibbett, a leading athletic-inspired fashion retailer, has taken significant steps to enhance its security framework by adopting the Cequence Unified API Protection (UAP) platform. This strategic move aims to bolster its security measures, automate threat detection, and safeguard its digital infrastructure across both cloud and on-premises systems.
The recent migration of critical Software as a Service (SaaS) applications to Oracle Cloud and Azure Active Directory resulted in a surge in API usage for Hibbett. This shift made it imperative for the company to ensure heightened visibility over its APIs, mitigating risks associated with data loss, theft, fraud, and other potential disruptions to business continuity. With this increase in API interactions, Hibbett recognized the limitations of traditional security solutions and sought a comprehensive protection strategy that could adapt to its evolving digital landscape.
Lee Morris, Senior Director of Security and Infrastructure Architecture at Hibbett, shared insights on the organization’s transformation, stating, “Cequence has allowed us to transform our IT from being a cost centre to a strategic arm of the organisation that is contributing to our bottom line.” The reduced complexity and improved efficiencies achieved through the UAP platform have played a vital role in reinforcing the company’s overall security posture.
Here are some key benefits Hibbett has experienced following the implementation of Cequence’s UAP platform:
Increased Visibility
Understanding the necessity for transparent operations, the Cequence platform provides Hibbett with a unified view of its API landscape. Effortless discovery and protection of all internal and external APIs allow the company to actively monitor and manage its security protocols. This robust visibility ensures that potential threats can be addressed before they escalate into more significant issues.
Seamless Deployment
One of the critical challenges businesses face when integrating new security solutions is the complexity often involved in deployment. Cequence’s UAP platform sidesteps this issue by facilitating a fast and frictionless integration process. This capability enables Hibbett to rapidly enhance its security without the delays and challenges typical of third-party tools.
Holistic Protection
Hibbett has benefited from a comprehensive suite of protection features provided by the UAP platform, which delivers integrated threat detection across its digital infrastructure. By consolidating various necessary security functionalities into one platform, Hibbett not only improves its security but also enhances operational efficiency.
Customized Response
Every organization has unique requirements when it comes to threats and vulnerabilities. The ability to create custom policies has positioned Hibbett to effectively target and block malicious bot activity. This level of customization aids in tailoring responses that protect customer data while minimizing disruption to revenue streams and existing partnerships.
Time and Cost Savings
Hibbett has found substantial savings in both time and resources since adopting the UAP platform. The reduction in manual API management tasks allows the IT team to focus on strategic initiatives rather than becoming bogged down in routine maintenance. In an industry where agility and responsiveness are paramount, these saved resources translate directly into enhanced operational efficiency.
Ameya Talwalkar, CEO of Cequence, emphasizes the critical role of APIs in contemporary retail and e-commerce. “APIs are the lifeblood of modern retail and e-commerce. Every action you take online, from adding an item to your cart to swiping your card at checkout, relies on APIs to seamlessly transmit data in the background.” Given the reliance on APIs for data transactions, securing these connections is essential. The tailored approach offered by Cequence ensures that Hibbett’s unique security needs are met without relying on one-size-fits-all solutions.
The partnership between Hibbett and Cequence showcases just how crucial API security has become in the retail landscape. With increasing instances of cyber threats and fraud, retailers must adopt robust protective measures to secure transactions and protect sensitive customer information. Hibbett’s strategic initiative to integrate the Cequence UAP platform sets a standard in the industry, aiming for not only secure but also efficient operations across all retail channels.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, so must the strategies retailers employ to protect themselves. Hibbett’s strategic moves illustrate the proactive steps necessary to stay ahead in a competitive and increasingly digital marketplace. By investing in robust security measures, Hibbett not only safeguards its operations but also reinforces consumer trust, an invaluable asset in the retail industry.
Follow Hibbett’s example and ensure your business’s digital infrastructure is well-equipped to handle today’s challenges.
