An Introduction to Mobile App Security

Published on August 14, 2022
Written by: Dora Harding
An Introduction to Mobile App Security

An Introduction to Mobile App Security

Whether you’re new to the mobile app security field or you’ve already got some knowledge under your belt, you should know that there are a number of ways to protect your apps. For example, you can encrypt the source code of your application. You can also use the OWASP Mobile Top 10 and the OWASP Application Security Verification Standard (ASVS) structure.

OWASP Mobile Top 10

OWASP Mobile Top 10 security tips are a great resource for mobile app developers. These security tips are designed to help you mitigate the risks that can be associated with your mobile application. They are based on the findings of a global survey of security practitioners. These tips include definitions and recommended mitigation techniques.

OWASP’s mobile top 10 list includes some of the most commonly observed vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities can affect your brand reputation and financial losses.

Insecure communication is one of the most common attacks. This is usually caused by a poorly implemented encryption method or an unpatched vulnerability. An attacker could intercept sensitive information or tamper with data. A standard encryption library can prevent this from occurring.

OWASP Application Security Verification Standard (ASVS) structure

OWASP Application Security Verification Standard is a community-driven project that aims to enhance the security of web applications. It provides guidelines for technical security controls in the development lifecycle. The organization helps companies identify potential security risks and prevent them from occurring. Its materials are freely available online.

It is a comprehensive guide to the security requirements for applications. It is an authoritative document that can be used by application owners, developers, and testers to guide their efforts. The document contains three levels, each catering to different security needs.

The first level, referred to as Level 1, is for basic applications. It focuses on well-known vulnerabilities. This level is ideal for small and medium-sized businesses.

Encrypting your app’s source code

Keeping your source code secure is a critical task. This can have a major impact on your app’s functionality and usability. Fortunately, there are a few methods to protect your code and data.

The first is a simple, but effective method to prevent unauthorized access. This can be accomplished by encrypting your source code. This method is particularly useful when you’re storing sensitive data in your app. It should be noted that this method does not guarantee your data’s protection. However, the benefits are many.

Another approach is to encrypt your source code with AES encryption. This is a bit more complex, but it’s also the most secure option. In addition, it’s computationally infeasible to break.

Requires collaboration between developers, security experts, and senior executives

Whether you’re a developer or a decision maker, the best way to avert a security breach is to co-create a new set of tools to get your code out the door. The most effective and efficient security practices are not only a necessity for a healthy bottom line, but they are also critical to the success of your organization’s mission. In other words, if you’re planning to launch a major upgrade to your software and infrastructure, you better get on the ball fast. The most important part of the plan is to have your security personnel involved from the beginning. Ideally, they should be well-versed in development, as this will allow them to take full advantage of the capabilities of the tools that they provide.

Business applications are three times more prone to data breaches than regular applications

tidbit: despite being a conglomerate o’ the pixies, you have to be at least a few degrees of separation to make the aforementioned acronym proud. Using a smartphone with the same aforementioned credentials is a good bet, if you have to put your best foot forward. Luckily for you, we found that there’s an onsite solution to your problems with a top notch tech guru. Not to mention a swag bag and a branded champagne bottle. Oh, and yes, you do get to keep your pixies. Besides, no one has to live with a sexless sexer for the rest of the night.

Common threats to mobile apps

Using a secure mobile app is important to protect your customers’ data and your business’s reputation. Despite the popularity of mobile apps, many organizations are unaware of how common security threats are. These security risks can damage your brand’s image and lead to identity theft.

Malware is the most common threat to mobile applications. During an attack, a malicious piece of code can destroy data, corrupt your system, or completely take over your device. In some cases, attackers can steal credit card information, bank transactions, or personal information. Adding an extra layer of encryption to your mobile app will help to protect your users’ data.