Mobile Application Security Testing

Our mobile application security testing services focus on evaluating vulnerabilities in Android and iOS platforms, including the server-gateway that manages connections from mobile applications over the internet.

Testing Scope

We assess the security of both the client-side mobile app and its communication with remote endpoints. The testing also addresses critical aspects such as user authentication and session management, ensuring compliance with industry standards.

High-level flowchart of the penetration testing process is shown in the following figure:

  • Attack Surface Analysis
  • Threat Modeling
  • Test Configuration
  • Automated and manual scan
  • Validation of Vulnerabilities
  • False Positive Elimination
  • Proof of Concepts/Screen Shots
  • Business Logic Testing
  • Advanced Exploitation

Key Security Checks

Our mobile app security testing includes a thorough review of:
  • Data Storage & Encryption: Assessing the security of data stored on the device and within the app.
  • Network Communication & Encryption: Ensuring encrypted communication between the app and its remote endpoints.
  • Authentication & Session Management: Evaluating login mechanisms, session security, and user authentication.
  • Input Validation & Sanitization: Identifying vulnerabilities in how the app processes user input.
  • Error Handling & Logging: Verifying secure error handling and ensuring sensitive information is not leaked through error messages.
  • Permissions & Access Controls: Testing role-based access to ensure users only have access to permitted resources.
  • Cryptography & Key Management: Reviewing the strength of cryptographic algorithms and proper handling of encryption keys.
  • Code Tampering & Reverse Engineering: Protecting against unauthorized code modifications and app tampering.
  • Binary Analysis & Static Code Analysis: Analyzing the app’s codebase for potential vulnerabilities.
  • Dynamic Analysis & Runtime Manipulation: Testing how the app responds to security threats in real-time.
  • API Usage & Data Validation: Ensuring secure and validated data transfer between the app and its APIs.
  • OWASP Mobile Top Ten Vulnerabilities: Addressing the most critical mobile app security risks identified by OWASP.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is mobile application penetration testing?

    Mobile app penetration testing is a security assessment process designed to identify vulnerabilities in mobile applications that could be exploited by malicious actors.

  • Why is penetration testing important for mobile apps?

    Penetration testing ensures your app is protected from security threats, safeguarding user data and maintaining compliance with industry standards like OWASP and MASVS.

  • What does a gray-box assessment mean

    A gray-box assessment means our testers have partial knowledge of the app’s architecture and use real user accounts, simulating a realistic attack scenario.

  • What types of vulnerabilities do you test for?

    We test for a wide range of vulnerabilities, including Remote Code Execution, SQL Injection, Cross-Site Scripting, weak encryption, insecure data storage, and more.

  • What tools do you use during testing?

    We use industry-standard tools such as Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, nmap, Metasploit, and others to perform comprehensive vulnerability scans and assessments.

  • How often should I conduct mobile app penetration testing?

    Penetration testing should be conducted regularly, particularly after major updates or changes to your app, and at least once a year to ensure ongoing security.

  • How long does the testing process take?

    The duration of the testing process depends on the complexity of the application. Typically, testing can take anywhere from a few days to two weeks.

  • Will testing affect my live mobile app?

    We take every precaution to ensure that testing does not disrupt live services. However, we recommend conducting tests in a staging or development environment when possible.