SSL/TLS can be used to protect APIs by encrypting the data being transmitted between the client and the API server. This means that even if the data is intercepted by a third party, they will not be able to decipher it. SSL/TLS also provides authentication, ensuring that the client is communicating with a genuine API server and not a fake one. This helps to prevent Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks, where an attacker intercepts the communication and impersonates the server. Additionally, SSL/TLS can be used to ensure the integrity of data, meaning that it cannot be modified during transmission. This helps to prevent tampering with the data, which could potentially compromise the security of the API. Overall, SSL/TLS plays a significant role in securing APIs and ensuring the confidentiality, authenticity, and integrity of the data being transmitted.