Securing Mobile Applications: Strategies and Considerations

In the dynamic landscape of mobile application security, a multitude of tools and frameworks play pivotal roles. Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) acts as a standardized language for categorizing software weaknesses, providing a common ground for vulnerability identification. Complementing CWE is the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) system, maintained by the MITRE Corporation, which serves as a naming scheme for software vulnerabilities. Additionally, the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS), owned by the Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams (FIRST), offers a standardized approach to scoring vulnerabilities, aiding in prioritization and mitigation efforts. Techniques such as app whitelisting and blacklisting are instrumental in protecting against the installation of malicious or vulnerable applications, often facilitated through Mobile Application Management (MAM) or Mobile Device Management (MDM) software.

While app vetting processes are crucial for enhancing mobile app security, it’s vital to acknowledge their limitations. No vetting process can guarantee the discovery of all potential vulnerabilities or malicious behavior. Software analysis tools may not inherently understand the specific security requirements of an application in its context, necessitating human intervention in security analysis. Over-reliance on a single tool poses significant risks due to the inherent limitations of each tool. Moreover, the distinction between compliance and certification is crucial. Compliance demonstrates adherence to security requirements, either through self-attestation or validation from an unofficial third party. Certification, on the other hand, involves successful validation from an authorized validator, offering a higher level of assurance.

As our reliance on mobile applications grows, ensuring their security becomes paramount. Organizations cannot solely rely on commercial app store reviews for security assurance. Mobile application vetting processes play a crucial role in safeguarding against threats like ransomware, spyware, and trojan horses. By employing robust vetting processes, organizations can ensure that mobile applications meet their security requirements and mitigate potential vulnerabilities effectively. Emphasizing these processes provides organizations with greater peace of mind regarding application security.

For further insights, refer to NIST Publication 800-163.