What are the different levels of security testing for mobile applications?

Static Testing should be a must for ensuring code quality of mobile/software apps due to the following reasons, - Highlights Code duplications - Highlights Code smells due to unused code, improper modularisation of code, having todo comments that are still not addressed/removed, - Code coverage of the existing code, - Security vulnerabilities of existing code. I've personally used SonarQube for static analysis.

In the context of mobile app development, static testing holds paramount importance. It involves a thorough examination of the app's source code through tools like JADX, ensuring the integrity of the codebase. This process identifies potential security risks and validates the preservation of resources. Static testing goes beyond decompilation, extending to simulating tampering attempts on the APK file. This proactive measure assesses the app's resistance to unauthorized modifications and tests mechanisms to thwart tampering, enhancing overall security.

- Proactive testing to simulate tampering attempts on the APK file. - Utilizes tools like SonarQube for static analysis. - Includes penetration testing to discover potential exploits. - Examines the app's communication with servers and ensures secure handling of sensitive information.

We want to add an extra layer of security to our app by implementing SSL pinning. This will help protect against potential man-in-the-middle attacks. Additionally, we want to make sure our app can't run on rooted devices to enhance its overall security. Let's work on these measures to keep our users and their data safe!

A key aspect of network testing is validating the connection itself i.e. SSL/TLS implementations to prevent data interception. Test against common network attacks like man-in-the-middle (MITM), session hijacking, and DNS spoofing. Additionally, network testing should verify that the app maintain data security via strong encryption during transitions between Wi-Fi, cellular data, and offline modes.

Device testing aims to identify and prevent any vulnerabilities or threats that could compromise the device's functionality, performance, usability, or data1. Some of the common types of device testing in security testing are: - Device configuration testing: This type of testing checks whether the device's settings and parameters are configured correctly and securely, and whether they meet the best practices and guidelines. - Device authentication testing: This type of testing checks whether the device can authenticate itself and its users to the system or network, and whether it can prevent unauthorized access or impersonation.

User Testing in security testing focuses on how real users interact with the application and potential security vulnerabilities that could arise from user behavior. This level is crucial because it provides insights into real-world scenarios that automated tests might not cover. However, its effectiveness heavily relies on the diversity and realism of the user test cases. It's important to include a wide range of user behaviors, including those that might seem unlikely, as attackers often use unexpected methods. Moreover, while user testing is valuable, it should not replace thorough automated testing methods. It's best used in conjunction with other levels of security testing to ensure comprehensive coverage of potential security threats.

Incorporate tracking of public CVEs into your security strategy. Using tools such as LunaTrace, GitGuardian, and others in the CI/CD pipeline & workflow can significantly enhance this process. These tools can provide timely notifications and suggest patches for identified vulnerabilities, thereby strengthening your app’s security.

Mobile application security can be ensured by using Static Application Security Testing tools such as SonarQube to comply OWASP top 10 and also by using Dynamic application security testing tools . Development team can adopt secure software development life cycle which ensures considering security of the app in all phases of the development.