Today’s digital world is ruled by data, and in a business mobile app context, it can provide real value. However, a lot of the information provided by connected devices is unstructured. Not many companies with a mobile app know how to reap the benefits without jeopardizing security. Unlike web apps, mobile applications are more prone to vulnerabilities. Loopholes, bugs, and errors happen all the time even to the strongest and most-used apps on the market. To strengthen security, protect the privacy of your customers, and keep your reputation intact, make sure to follow the give smart steps below:
-
Business Mobile app code security comes first
Throughout the app development process, make sure to inform developers about policies and security. Talk about the importance of data protection during the coding and design phases. When development happens with security in mind, quality is almost guaranteed. Unlike web applications, the source code of a business mobile app is usually in the possession of the client. This means it’s vulnerable and can be easily accessed by anyone. To prevent that from happening, use an API to encrypt the code and do periodic tests on the code so that you can spot errors and fix bugs before going live.
-
Add an extra layer of security to network connections
In general, mobile apps use APIs and cloud-based servers to provide users with backend information. It’s a very delicate segment of an app because it contains the highest volume of data. Before using any APIs, make sure to check and verify them; proper authentication should be in place for all programmers and developers with access to the APIs. Use TLS, VPS, and SSL to add an extra layer of encryption just to make sure your data is protected.
-
Proper authorization, identification, and authentication
Authorization and authentication measures enable you to know exactly who’s using the app, whereas identification measures compel all participants to log in before doing anything. OAuth 2.0, for example, is an industry security standard that must be installed as an additional security layer in case you decide to leverage 2FA (two-factor) authentication. The main reason why OAuth 2.0 is useful is that it provides the right credentials and permissions to the right people.
-
Don’t overlook mobile encryption
Since a mobile app’s data is stored on the device the app is being used, having a mobile encryption policy in place helps prevent unexpected vulnerabilities. Some of the information stored is collected without the knowledge of the user, making the app even more exposed. However, a file-based encryption policy will prevent the information from being intercepted by potential hackers. A strong algorithm with proper certifications and keys reduces liability, making your app a lot safer.
-
Perform regular tests on the app’s software
Following the development phase of your mobile app, make sure to do regular tests as errors and bugs might occur. Make sure that the team you’re working with uses best practices for coding prior to the final release. This way, it’s easier to understand unexpected vulnerabilities and errors. To verify performance, use emulators in various settings and scenarios as this will help determine its security levels.
Before releasing a mobile application to the open market, strengthening security should be a priority. In case you’re struggling to understand how mobile app security works, search for a trusted mobile app development Houston, like App Maisters, to prevent unexpected data breaches, address and validate all security concerns so that you can have a fully-functional end product for your business.
With the growth of mobile applications, businesses need to take extra care when it comes to security. With a plethora of devices in use, and new ones being released each day, users won’t have to look far to find an app that suits their needs. In fact, the number of mobile apps is expected to grow significantly in the next few years.
Conclusion:
One of the first steps to take when you start developing a mobile app is to secure it. It shouldn’t come as a surprise. While it is nearly impossible to come up with universal security guidelines, there are some fixes you can implement (such as a session management system) that will make your app more secure. To help you out, we have gathered here 5 smart steps and measures to take into account when securing your mobile app.
