Android has built-in security features like Application Sandbox, an encrypted file system, ProPolice, etc., that can reduce the impact and frequency of security issues.
However, as the mobile app development industry grows, so does the cybercrimes. These have made it essential to take certain measures before you can submit your app to Play Store.
Building the mobile app is only the first step. You then have to follow other mandatory processes where one of the crucial ones is implementing mobile app security best practices.
As a developer, you have to ensure the security and privacy of your users. The following are some of the best practices you can implement to secure an Android app:
- Store Sensitive Data in Internal Storage
Android implements protection by making sure files created on internal storage are only accessible to the app.
However, you should avoid using the MODE_WORLD_READABLE or MODE_WORLD_WRITEABLE since they don’t limit data access to some applications. They do not also provide data control formats.
If you need to share data with other processes, use a content provider that can offer permissions on a case-by-case basis.
You can also use the Security library to encrypt local files. Doing this can protect devices without file system encryption if lost.
- Encrypt Data on External Storage
Files you create on external storage are writeable and readable and can be removed and modified by other applications. It’s therefore not wise to store sensitive information here.
If storing data on external storage, use the security library to encrypt files so that you can read and write them securely. It’s also advisable to perform input validation with data from external storage.
- Use HTTPS
Use an HTPPS connection for all your communications between the server and app.
Why is this?
Most Android users use open public WIFI hotspots that could be malicious. If you use HTTP, the malicious code can alter the traffic contents and make the app behave unexpectedly, exploit it, or inject ads.
Using HTTPS with a server from a trusted certificate can help secure your network against man-in-the-middle attacks and eavesdropping.
- Use ProGuard
Before publishing your app, use ProGuard to minify and obfuscate source code. Doing this can prevent attackers from compromising your source code.
These and other best practices can help protect your app from security attacks by cybercriminals. It can also ensure your users get a good experience when using the apps.