A common objection to data interoperability is that it creates security risks — that connecting systems opens doors that should remain closed. This objection conflates interoperability with open access, and reflects a misunderstanding of how well-designed interoperability works.
What Secure Interoperability Actually Looks Like
Secure interoperability means that data flows between systems are controlled, authenticated, authorized, logged and limited to what is necessary. An API that requires authentication, returns only the data fields the requesting party is authorized to access, logs every request, enforces rate limits and can be revoked when authorization ends is more secure than a human copying data from one spreadsheet to another via email.
The comparison is not "interoperable system" versus "no data exchange." It is "structured, governed, auditable data exchange" versus "ad hoc, uncontrolled, unmonitored data exchange." Framed correctly, good interoperability improves security outcomes rather than compromising them.
Where Real Security Risks Arise
The genuine security risks in interoperability arise from poor implementation, not from the concept itself. Poorly authenticated APIs are a security risk. Overly permissive access controls that return more data than requested are a security risk. Lack of logging that prevents detection of unauthorized access is a security risk. These are implementation problems, and they can be addressed through governance requirements, procurement standards and technical controls.
What to Require from Vendors
When evaluating vendor interoperability capabilities from a security perspective, ask: Does the API require OAuth or another strong authentication mechanism? Does the API implement field-level access controls, not just record-level? Is there a complete audit log of API access? Can we receive alerts for unusual access patterns? What is the process for revoking access when no longer authorized?
The responsible vendor principles and vendor data questions guide include security-specific evaluation criteria.