Top Security Issues App Developers Should Know About

Mobile application development is experiencing exponential growth in the present market. This makes it necessary for mobile app developers to not only provide new features to users but to also ensure that security protocols are constantly updated.

In fact, mobile application security is one of the biggest concerns today as data within those apps can easily be compromised with lax security controls. External forces like malicious hackers target mobile applications to illegally gain access to consumer information and use it for personal profit.

This is why app developers should prioritise security when building applications for both iOS and Android platforms.

Here are the most pressing app security issues app developers should know and ways to deal with them.

Vulnerable Source Code

When it comes to building mobile applications the source code is one of the most important components. Unfortunately, as it is so valuable there are a number of hackers who want to exploit it.

According to CERT Australia, the amount of malware specifically targeting smart device codes is on the rise. Hackers are skilled in a number of hacking techniques like reverse engineering an app code to break the most secure codes.

This is why writing a highly secure code is so important. Build hard codes that are difficult to break  for hackers and easy to update for you so that you integrate latest security measures  constantly.

Weak Authentication Mechanism

Authentication mechanisms are also a crucial part of mobile application security. With weak authentication a mobile app is exposed to a number of security vulnerabilities.

Developers should stress on maximizing security for user authentication based on passwords. The password policy needs to be strong enough to not be broken easily. Another way is using multi-factor authentication. This makes your app more secure through authentication code, biometrics or One-Time Password (OTP) login.

Unauthorised API

Some app developers neglect using authorized API on their mobile app codes. This gives hackers the opportunity to get access to your information and internal systems like sensitive authentication information caches.

That’s why we recommend having a centralized authentication for the entire API to ensure the utmost security for all your mobile applications.

With the ever-increasing reliance of businesses on secure IT structures, cyber and application security has proven its importance. Not only will this allow for more reliable business operations but will also become a differentiating factor in the app world.

We ensure that with our detailed mobile application penetration testing services, your application security is completely safeguarded against malicious forces.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about our security testing services.

Benefits of Cloud-Based Testing for Mobile Applications

Cloud-based mobile application testing uses cloud technology to enable developer access to a range of mobile devices. These devices may use different Operating System (OS) platforms and network carriers.

Testers perform actions on the app that a real user is likely to make such as scrolling, rotate, double tapping etc. This way cloud-based testing helps them identify and correct issues arising in their mobile apps.

As new versions and OS platforms are being introduced to the market, it’s more crucial now more than ever to enhance mobile app experience for end-users. The way to do this is to conduct thorough cloud-based mobile app tests which ensure that your app has been optimized with a competitive edge that enables it to perform better across a range of mobile devices.

This post will discuss the top three benefits of using cloud technology for mobile application testing.

Facilitates Continuous Integration

Businesses are constantly growing which means that there is scope for continuous integration of new applications. With cloud-based app testing this process is easier to implement at different stages.

Each time a new piece of source code is added to a mobile application, app developers are required to test it out for potential bugs and usage issues. Cloud testing gives testers the chance to test under large-scale scenarios, introducing new versions faster than ever.

Eases Prioritising Certain Projects

Cloud technology creates a centralised database for managers, allowing them to assign devices to testers as they deem fit.

This means that top-priority projects with severe application or performance issues are handled easily. It could even be an urgent need to deploy a new version of a mobile app because of a market competitor.

In situations like these, managers can efficiently provide priority projects with relevant testing devices.

Allows Performance Tests In Different Local Networks

Sometimes more than the version of the mobile application, the speed of the network may contribute to the efficiency of the app.

For example, if a slow network based in Kathmandu is being used to run the application, it doesn’t matter if the latest smartphone is in use.

With cloud-based mobile app testing you can connect any device to a host machine in any part of the world be it London or Mexico City. These devices are connected to the main server and available to any tester. You get access to all these local network carriers to determine the functionality of your application anywhere.

In addition to the above mentioned advantages, there are many more ways companies can benefit from using cloud mobile app testing such as being able to test 24 hours a day and covering more test scenarios in a short time.

Drop us an email at info@leansecurity.com.au to learn about our mobile application penetration testing  and cloud infrastructure testing services today.

Mobile Application Vulnerabilities - Infographic

We cannot overlook the fact that mobile devices have taken the world by storm. Almost every next person is dependent upon these portable devices to buy, sell and communicate with the people around the world.

With advantages comes loads of hurdles and threats like cyber crime and mobile hack. All these unwanted threats lead to data loss and date security breach.

Here’s why you should be aware of the mobile application vulnuerabilities.

How to Keep Your Data Secure On Cloud

Apple is one of the most popular and renowned brands in the world of smartphones. However, their credibility took a major hit back in 2015 when hackers attacked the Apple App Store.

What followed was leaked pictures of famous celebrities online.

These raised concerns among Apple users regarding the safety of their iCloud accounts. Apple immediately went into damage control mode. However, it took quite some time to convince people that their data was secure.

Cloud Technology

The number of people who use Cloud technology is rapidly increasing and it is expected that by the end of 2018, 3.6 billion people will be using this service.

The aforementioned Apple case raised quite a few eyebrows and companies are now looking for ways in which they can ensure their data stays secure. Take a look at some ways they can do so:

Strong Passwords

Nothing puts your data at a greater risk than a weak password. Majority of the attacks on cloud servers are successful because of this reason.

A strong password prevents this problem. Long and complex passwords make it harder for hackers to breach your system’s security.

Make sure you are not too careless with your passwords. Avoid sharing it with people. Changing it regularly also helps.

Use Secure Data Connection

One particular feature that makes Cloud systems so appealing is remote access. It allows you to gain access to your data from any part of the world. However, it is important that you use a secure data connection in order to access your Cloud account.

Use a VPN. It ensures that all the data, which flows in your system, comes through a secure channel. You also need to make sure that the computers in home and laptops have the same level of security as your office computers.

Data Encryption

Data encryption is one of the most effective ways you can ensure that all your information stays safe. In this process, your data is converted into packets, which are then scrambled.

Once the data reaches its destination, it is once again converted in its original form via a unique key. Only the person who has the key can access the data.

Secure Managed Cloud Hosting

Want to make sure your website continues to run smoothly even if there is a glitch? Secure managed cloud hosting can help.

We offer enterprise-level Cloud hosting services in Australia at affordable prices. You can count on us for high-quality services. We make sure we follow all compliance standards and offer the highest level of security.

In addition to that, we also offer penetration testing and web security audit services. Contact us at +61 (2) 8078 6952.

Signs Your Network Security Has Been Compromised

Do you get random messages every time you turn on your web browser? Maybe you have an unwanted toolbar on your browser. These are just some signs that your network’s security has been compromised.

In case of a security breach, hackers can gain access to all your private information. Keep an eye out for the following signs. You know your network security has been compromised if you notice any of these:

Unresponsive Computer

Modern operating systems allow computers to perform multiple tasks at the same time. However, if you notice your PC being unresponsive and is running multiple programs in the background, it is a sign that it is working as a node for a malware.

Pop Up Messages

“Your P.C is slow, click here to make it faster”. Ever got one of these messages? As tempting as it is, do not make the mistake of clicking the OK button. You might unintentionally install a malware in your system.

Hackers can use malware to keep track of all of your online activity. Malware also gives them access to your hardware like the webcam.

While Browsing the Internet You Are Redirected To another Webpage

Hackers make a living by redirecting you to a different webpage. The more clicks on the webpage, the more money the hacker gets.

Are you facing this problem? A simple test can help determine if there is a security breach. Open a search engine and type in a random term like ‘puppy’ and hit enter. If you get irrelevant search results, it is a sign of a security breach.

Your Passwords Have Changed

When hackers gain access to your system, they often change passwords and login credentials. There is a chance that your sensitive data might be lost. Hackers might even blackmail you for money.

Therefore, make sure you change your passwords regularly. Send an email to support if you are not able to log in and ask them to change your password.

Spam Emails Sent From Your Computer

Check your email address book. Do you see any emails you do not remember sending? This is another sign of a network breach. It can be a malware. Hackers use this tactic in order to break into computer systems.

Network security assessments and penetration testing can help boost your system’s security. Get in touch with us. We have a team of experts who can make sure your confidential information stays safe and secure.

We also offer services like web security audits. Contact us at +61 (2) 8078 6952.