Mobile Application Security Testing
- In scope
- iOS · Android · API
Mobile security depends on both the application running on the device and the services it accesses. We examine agreed builds, local data handling, communication and backend interactions to identify weaknesses and provide targeted hardening recommendations.
Discuss an assessmentCommon risks
Reverse engineering and tampering
The app binary is decompiled, core logic and keys are extracted, or the app is repackaged with malicious code.
Plaintext data storage
Account details, tokens, and personal data are stored in plain text in local files, databases, or logs.
Insecure communication
Without proper certificate validation, or with data sent in plain text, traffic can be intercepted or altered in transit.
API abuse
APIs without authentication or rate limiting can be called in bulk and abused for fake orders, credential stuffing, or unauthorized access.
Components and permissions
Exported components can be invoked by other apps, WebView is misconfigured, or the app requests sensitive permissions it does not need.
Scope
- iOS and Android apps (binary and runtime)
- Backend APIs called by the app
- Key flows such as login and payments
- Local storage, logs, and cached data
- Third-party SDKs and WebView
Assessment approach
Static analysis
We decompile the app binary and check for hard-coded keys, sensitive information, and code protection.
Dynamic analysis
We run the app on test devices and examine local storage, logs, and runtime protections.
Traffic and API testing
We analyze the app’s network traffic and test the backend APIs for authentication, access control, and abuse issues.
Reporting and hardening advice
We list the issues by risk level and set out a hardening plan.
Assessment deliverables
- Test report
- A complete list of app and API issues, with reproduction steps and risk levels.
- Hardening recommendations
- Specific measures such as code obfuscation, data encryption, certificate validation, and API protection.
- Compliance support
- We can help with app store review and privacy compliance requirements.
When this service is relevant
- Before your first app store launch or a major release
- Your app handles payments, financial data, or personal data
- Your app has been cracked or repackaged, or its APIs are being abused
- An app store or partner sets security compliance requirements
Common engagement questions
Do we need to provide source code?
No. We can work directly from the app binary. If you can provide test accounts and API documentation, the testing will be more thorough.
Do we need to test both iOS and Android?
We recommend testing both. Even when the backend APIs are the same, the two apps are built and protected differently, so their risks often differ too.
Will testing affect our live app?
Client analysis normally uses agreed devices and builds. Backend testing can still affect operations, so the environment, testing window, stop conditions and recovery arrangements must be agreed beforehand.
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Define the right scope for your next assessment.
Tell us which systems and business priorities matter. We will discuss the assessment approach, required authorization and expected deliverables.
Read the authorization and responsibility notice before submitting an enquiry.