There has been a significant increase in cyberattacks on mobile applications and data breaches affecting them. This blog article addresses the mobile App security advisory for developers. Developers should consider the security practices listed here to effectively enhance the security of mobile applications they develop.
Avoid exposing APIs
Today, the majority of Apps rely on APIs to enable third-party services, improving app functionality. It is still possible for hackers to gain access to your API permission keys and exploit them to access your security systems. The App should not contain any hardcoded, sensitive API keys. App developers should avoid exposing APIs because they can leave their applications vulnerable to security breaches, malicious attacks, and data theft. APIs allow third-party applications to access and use the data within an application. Any security breach or vicious attack can lead to unauthorised access and misuse of private data. Additionally, exposing APIs can make an application more susceptible to DDoS attacks if attackers discover the API and use it to overload the application with requests.
Source code security
It is a must for your mobile application’s source code to be encrypted. Unauthorised access to source code can lead to several issues, including copyright infringement, patent infringement, and other legal issues. Additionally, stealing source code can lead to the duplication of an App, which can negatively impact the developer’s ability to monetise their App. Finally, malicious use of the source code can result in the mobile App being used for malicious purposes, including malware attacks and other forms of cybercrime. Protecting source code is essential for mobile App developers to ensure their application is secure and their intellectual property is protected.
Ensuring database security
Mobile App developers should ensure database security to protect the data and information stored in the database from unauthorised access, modification, deletion, and other malicious activities. Database security is essential to protect the users’ privacy on the App and any other related data, as well as the integrity of the database and the system itself. Additionally, database security measures help to prevent potential data breaches and other security incidents, which can have severe implications for the App, its users, and the organisation.
Keeping the App updated
Mobile App developers should update their apps to protect users from the latest security threats. By staying up-to-date, developers can maintain the integrity of their Apps and ensure that the data their user’s store within them is safe and secure. Additionally, updating their Apps allows developers to take advantage of the latest security features and technologies, such as two-factor authentication, encryption, and other measures that help protect user data.
Implementing high-level authentication
Strong authentication lowers the possibility of unauthorised access and password hacks. Implementing multi-factor authentication without drastically interfering with the user experience can ensure more security. If necessary, consider using a combination of codes via SMS, pins, biometric verification, and security questions. Finally, high-level authentication can provide an additional layer of security for mobile applications, which helps protect users and their data from potential threats.
App security testing & training
The increase in mobile App usage has benefited both developers and hackers. Hackers keep looking for vulnerabilities and ways to penetrate others’ data and privacy. Hence, mobile app security testing is essential for developers to carry out. Mobile app penetration testing not only helps ensure the safety and security of their Apps but will also help prevent data breaches, malware attacks, and other malicious activities. It can also help ensure user privacy and identify any vulnerabilities in the App that hackers could exploit.
At the same time, mobile App security training is also crucial for developers. It helps them understand and implement the security protocols and procedures to protect their Apps from malicious attacks. It also helps them understand the different types of attacks, how to protect against them, and the importance of following security best practices. In addition, training ensures that the App is secure and compliant with industry regulations and standards.
Being one of the best cyber security companies in the UAE, Green Method offers services including, but not limited to, application security testing and secure mobile application development training. From analysing security gaps to offering comprehensive and real-time checks, Green Method provides top-notch application security testing services. When it comes to training for developers, Green Method offers C-MASP, a two-day workshop for mobile application developers (Android and iOs). Our training programme helps developers set up concepts and practises for secure App development.
