In the 21st century, mobile apps allow businesses to easily access products, services, and information. An estimated USD 206.85 billion was spent on mobile apps worldwide in 2022, and it is expected to grow 13.8% per year between 2023 and 2030.
As mobile app usage increases, so do the risks associated with it. The growing amount of sensitive data processed and stored in mobile apps makes app security more important than ever.
Here are the top 10 risks in iOS app development and how to mitigate them.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Risks in iOS App Development and Solutions
1. Code Tampering
Code tampering occurs when an application’s code or behavior is modified without the owner’s consent. A hacker modifies the code of an application to bypass security checks, steal sensitive information, or execute malicious code on a victim’s device. Through third-party app stores or malicious websites, malicious versions of legitimate apps are created through code tampering.
Code tampering compromises sensitive information, such as login credentials, financial information, and personal information. Also, it can be used to install malware on a victim’s device, giving the attacker full control over the device and access to all its data.
For instance, a popular Chinese app contains malware that can read users’ private messages, view notifications, and monitor activity on other apps.
Code tampering risks can only be mitigated by implementing several security measures. Code obfuscation, checksums, code signing, and runtime application self-protection (RASP) are some of the most important security features.
It is harder for attackers to identify vulnerabilities when code is obfuscated, which makes it harder for them to read and understand the code. Checksums can also be used to verify that the code has not been modified during installation.
2. Insufficient Transport Layer Protection
The Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol ensures secure communication over the Internet between two endpoints, such as a mobile app and a server. Data in transit is encrypted and the identities of the parties communicating are verified, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and authentication.
The lack of TLS in mobile apps poses a significant security risk. Data transmitted between the mobile app and the server is vulnerable to interception, modification, and theft without TLS. A hacker can exploit this vulnerability to access sensitive information, including passwords, financial data, and personal information.
Read More: 20 Mobile App Ideas For Startups In 2024
3. Weak Authentication and Authorization
An app’s weak authentication and authorization mechanisms can be easily compromised, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data and functionality. Hackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain access to sensitive information, which can result in data breaches, financial loss, reputational damage, and other serious consequences.
An example of weak authentication and authorization is the use of weak passwords, the lack of password policies, the use of default credentials, the use of outdated authentication protocols, and the absence of multifactor authentication.
A data breach at DoorDash in 2022 was caused by weak authentication and authorization. Through a vulnerability in the third-party payment provider’s authentication and authorization systems, hackers accessed the personal information of DoorDash users and merchants.
Here are some steps you can take to mitigate the risk of weak authentication and authorization:
- Set up alphanumeric passwords to enforce stronger password policies.
- Keeping passwords up-to-date and enforcing password lockout policies.
- Implement two-factor or multi-factor authentication instead of default credentials.
- Keep your authentication and authorization protocols up-to-date.
4. Insecure Data Storage
The term insecure data storage refers to customer data that is not adequately protected. When data is not properly encrypted, or storage mechanisms are not secure enough, this security issue can occur.
The primary cause of data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and identity theft is insecure data storage. As an example, Starbucks’ app recently suffered a data breach.
Solutions to mitigate these risks include:
- Encrypt customer data both at rest and in transit using a strong data encryption mechanism.
- Use techniques such as data masking or data tokenization to obscure customer data.
- Protect sensitive data by storing it on secure servers that encrypt data and restrict access.
5. Using Suspicious Code Snippets
The common practice of copying and pasting code is common among beginners. Even though this may save the day, it can also leave your code vulnerable. It is also possible that a hacker intentionally wrote the code.
Make sure you understand each character before copying code blindly. You should also avoid downloading frameworks or libraries that are not created by verified users. You can make your mobile app more secure by following these best practices for mobile app development security.
6. Poor Server-Side Security
The majority of developers secure the client side of their applications without considering the server side. When credit card information is stored on the server, this can compromise confidential data.
Make sure your mobile app development security best practices include high-grade encryption and a reliable SSL. You can significantly improve server-side security this way.
7. No Penetration Testing
Pen-testing identifies security flaws or vulnerabilities in your application in real time. Research shows that 69% of companies involved (3,000) perform penetration testing to prevent data breaches. Unfortunately, developers sometimes skip this step due to tight deadlines or carelessness. It puts users at risk.
Perform multiple pen tests on your application regardless of the deadline. Detecting security flaws and developing safe mobile apps and websites will help you avoid future problems.
8. Not Releasing Security Patches Frequently
Based on user feedback, patches and updates should be pushed frequently. Unfortunately, this rarely occurs, putting user security and company reputation at risk.
You should look for genuine customer feedback once your app is live. Follow the input, perform patches, release the improved version, and repeat. By doing so, hackers will not be able to exploit any loopholes you left in the previous version. You can also ensure the security of mobile app development.
9. Caching Confidential Information
Caching can save users time, but it can also put them at risk. How? Let’s say your app saves users’ login information to enable them to log in instantly without entering anything. Now, anyone who gets hold of a stolen mobile device can log in to the app and use it for unfair purposes.
Include conditions that prevent confidential data from being automatically cached.
10. Ineffective Session Handling
The sessions of mobile apps are usually longer than those of web apps. It ensures a smooth user experience and sales, especially in eCommerce. If the phone gets stolen and the session doesn’t expire, the thief can easily access the information, compromising the security of the app.
Integrate reauthentication techniques. Before completing the transaction, the user is prompted to log in again to confirm their identity.
Conclusion
Mobile app security is crucial in today’s digital age. To prevent data breaches and protect their users’ sensitive information, mobile app developers must identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities in their apps. Following the best practices and solutions discussed in this blog can help mobile app developers strengthen the security of their apps and provide a secure and trustworthy experience for their users. Our comprehensive software testing services can identify and fix security vulnerabilities in your app.
So, if you are looking for an iOS app development company that delivers fast, reliable & seamless iOS apps, contact HashStudioz Technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is mobile app security?
A mobile app’s security refers to the measures developers take to prevent vulnerabilities and external threats from affecting mobile apps.
2. Who can help you with secure mobile app development?
You can follow the solutions given above to secure your application, but there’s something more effective. What’s that? HashStudioz Technologies
HashStudioz is the world’s most powerful plug-and-play security platform that protects mobile apps in minutes. With HashStudioz, you can:
- Regardless of app size, scan any mobile application for security issues in under 60 minutes.
- Performing automated security tests on 130 test cases.
- Perform surface level and API tests.
- Detect real-time security flaws by running penetration tests.
Additionally, HashStudioz focuses on the security of mobile applications on platforms such as Android and iOS. HashStudioz allows you to test applications on multiple platforms. Book a demo today and secure your mobile application with HashStudioz.