Mobile applications have become an essential part of every brand, business, and service. A custom-tailored mobile app with perfect design features will get you more clients and turn users into customers. Professionals use varying app development frameworks including Flutter, PhoneGap, Onsen UI, Xamarin, and React Native for developing state-of-the-art mobile applications. When it comes to choosing a firm to build a secure mobile app, perform a detailed analysis of the mobile app development company in Kerala, or the region wherever you are located, before hiring the developers.
The secure mobile app is of paramount importance. Technical glitches that may turn into potential threats can impact not only the app but also the image of the brand. The Secure mobile applications concerning the business or products must be subjected to exhaustive inspection, technical examination, analysis, and beta testing prior to launch. A foolproof mobile app is the best support for the success of an organization.
We have analyzed the probable issues encountered by the mobile app developers. Evaluation of the development scenario, checks involved, the possibilities of attack, and the right way ahead have been the main factors we assessed.
Table of Contents
The 10 ways to build a secure mobile app
which we could identify through analysis, are elaborated in the succeeding paragraphs.
1. Inspect to Find the Vulnerability
Assume that you are a hacker trying to attack the mobile app. Inspect even the subtlest aspect of the coding to explore any possibility of an attack. Don’t miss out on even a minor flaw in the code. Reviewing the code exhaustively and asking your colleague, who is an expert in the same field as you, would be helpful. Another way to carry out the vulnerability analysis is by asking one of your team members to undertake the inspection. Since the app has been developed by you, the fault may not be evident. The third person, who was not involved in the development, would be able to carry out a comprehensive check.
2. Exhaustive Testing of the Application
Never hurry through testing. You might be running out of time or the scheduled date of delivery may be nearing. Even so, you should not bypass testing of the app. It is better to delay the delivery of the mobile app. Instead of launching an improperly tested mobile application that may be exploited by hackers.
3. Security Team Must be Involved During the Development
The involvement of the security team will help you identify issues at the earliest. Thus avoiding wastage of time at the last moment, when the mobile app is ready for delivery. There may be modifications or structural improvements suggested by the client. Don’t forget to include the security team member during such tasks as well. This is a great method to prevent the possibility of any security lapse.
4. Necessity of SSL Certificate
SSL certificate is a mandatory requirement to protect the app from attacks from hackers. Digital miscreants can attack a mobile application that doesn’t have an SSL certificate. They can perform fake login sessions, redirect your clients to third-party websites, impact your traffic or extract data. The proper implementation of SSLC certificates is of paramount importance.
5. Usage of Codes from Third Party
Mobile app developers many a time opt for third-party codes to improve performance, introduce new functionality, or any other specific purpose. Such codes must be subjected to thorough auditing to confirm that it doesn’t have any loopholes that can be used by hackers. Studies indicate that approximately 45% of programmers and developers give a blind eye to reviews regarding third-party codes. Don’t be the one among them. It can turn problematic for the mobile app.
6. Integration of API
APIs pose a major security threat to mobile apps. Although it is a vital part of backend development, the APIs must be verified for usage in the specific platform you use. A negligent attitude can turn destructive in this case. Therefore, be careful whilst integrating API.
7. Encrypted Data Transmission
Interception of data transmitted and received can cause adverse effects. Attackers could acquire the info concerning the users, financial transactions, and such important data. Incorporate encrypted data transmission only. VPN, SSL, and TLS can be considered for securing the transmission of data.
8. Opt for Minimized Permission
As a rule of thumb, you cannot trust anyone on the internet. Therefore, limit the authorizations. The app permissions must be according to the requirement only. It is beneficial in preventing attacks on the device of the user.
9. Tokens to Regulate the Usage
The client-oriented and user-friendly tokens are useful in enhancing the security aspect of mobile applications.
10. Storage of Sensitive Data
The data relating to individuals that could be exploited by attackers must be stored separately, in a properly secured space. Better to encrypt the data before storing it in the device. The aim is to prevent hackers from gaining access to your client’s personal info, through your mobile app.
Secure Mobile App development consists of intrinsic aspects that have to be observed and abide by the programmers. Even a minor error can impact the performance of the app or derail the business. Only a trustworthy agency with proven experience must be assigned with the task of app development for you. A successful mobile or web development company should have a team with expertise in different development platforms. Ensure that they are maintaining confidentiality regarding your brand and business.
