Mobile penetration testing
Uncover the security flaws that could affect your mobile applications and the data of their users.
What is a mobile pentest?
Android and iOS mobile applications are prime targets for attackers. Mobile penetration tests uncover the security flaws in your applications. These vulnerabilities can lead to the compromise of critical data, harm your company reputation, and expose your users to significant risks.
Objectives
Our audits highlight realistic risk scenarios, including:
Exposure of sensitive data
Exposure of vulnerable APIs
Authentication bypass
Excessive or misconfigured permissions
Pivoting to the internal network
The HELX approach
We run in-depth technical penetration tests on your mobile applications to detect, analyze and fix vulnerabilities. Using recognized methodologies (OWASP Mobile Security Testing Guide, among others), we assess the key components of your applications (source code, backend APIs, configurations) to make sure they hold up against current threats.
Audit types
Our mobile penetration tests for Android and iOS adapt to your needs and your specific constraints. During our first conversation, we define together the most relevant approach based on your security objectives and threat scenarios.
Black box
Simulates a realistic attack by an external attacker with no prior access to your mobile application, or one who has gotten hold of a phone with the app installed.
Gray box
In this scenario, we extend the black box approach with credentials, so we can log into the application and analyze how it works in more detail.
White box
An in-depth analysis based on the source code and documentation you provide. Ideal for a complete assessment of the technical vulnerabilities in the application.
Methodology
Our approach follows a rigorous methodology to identify and exploit the vulnerabilities of a mobile application.
- 01
Information gathering
Collection of information about the application, the technologies in use and the entry points, and preparation of the test environment for an in-depth analysis.
- 02
Static analysis
We decompile the APK/IPA files and analyze the source code to identify vulnerabilities such as exposed keys or configuration mistakes. We also review permissions, logging and code obfuscation.
- 03
Dynamic analysis
The application runs on a device or an emulator so we can observe its behavior. We analyze network traffic and data storage, and test the protections against exploitation, including anti-debugging bypass and execution on a rooted or jailbroken device.
- 04
Network and server-side analysis
We assess the security of the exchanges between the application and its server by intercepting traffic, checking SSL/TLS certificates and analyzing the APIs for potential vulnerabilities.
- 05
Reporting and recommendations
Documentation of the vulnerabilities found and the proof of exploitation. Delivery of a report detailing the flaws and their possible impact. Recommendations to fix the vulnerabilities and strengthen security.
A bit of technical detail
Our mobile audit methodology is built on well-known, proven standards such as the OWASP Mobile Security Testing Guide. In particular, we look for the following vulnerabilities:
- Storage and handling of sensitive data
- Recovery of user data
- Missing or bypassable anti-root / SSL pinning mechanisms
- Injections in the mobile API (SQL, commands, RCE)
- Authentication bypass
- Session hijacking
- Excessive permissions on resources
- Lack of protection against reverse engineering
Our other penetration tests
Frequently asked questions
How much does a mobile penetration test cost?
Same pricing as web: between €4,250 and €11,050 excl. VAT per application, depending on its functional depth and the approach. Small businesses, SMBs and non-profits get a 15% discount; the online quote simulator gives you an immediate estimate.
Do you test both iOS and Android?
Yes, both platforms: static analysis of the binary, local storage, network communications, and above all the backend APIs, which carry most of the risk.
Do we need to provide the source code?
No. A build of the application (APK/IPA or TestFlight/store access) and test accounts are enough for a gray box test. Access to the code lets us go further if you want.
Is the application backend included?
Yes. A mobile application never lives in isolation: the APIs and services it consumes are an integral part of the test scope.
Tell us about your project.
Let us talk through your needs and expectations and build the right service for you.