• Data Storage
  Sensitive information like usernames, passwords, or addresses is often shared with third parties, but this should only occur with the user’s explicit consent and when absolutely necessary. This data should never appear in application logs or be stored alongside other data in backups.Passwords and PINs must always be encrypted within the app and securely stored using mechanisms like Keystore or Keychain to allow, for example, persistent login sessions. Few users know that they must manually disable keyboard caching to prevent memory contents from being exposed. Similarly, application caches should be cleared regularly for security.

• Data Transmission (“On Air”)

Data transmitted over the air, such as through Wi-Fi networks, is vulnerable to interception by malicious programs. To combat this, network requests should only be allowed from authenticated users and directed exclusively to secure sources. In public networks like hotspots, user data can be safeguarded through SSL pinning or certificate pinning, which also helps prevent “man-in-the-middle” attacks.

• Authentication & Authorization

While modern authentication methods like facial recognition or fingerprint ID are quick and convenient, they are less robust than secure passwords or PINs. Regardless of the method, authentication provides users with a sense of security and helps build trust in the app.

• System Integrity

Rooting or jailbreaking is often done to install pirated apps or unlock additional smartphone features. However, these actions create significant security risks. A well-developed app should be able to detect these modifications and stop execution automatically, even if it means losing users who prefer the benefits of rooting or jailbreaking.

• Secure App Logic

Apps can be reverse-engineered, meaning their code can be analyzed and replicated—essentially pirated. This risk can be mitigated by obfuscating the code and logs, making it unreadable and extremely difficult, if not impossible, to reverse-engineer.