Top Mobile App Risks Since 2022: What Every Developer and Business Should Know
The mobile app landscape continues to grow rapidly, with millions of apps on the App Store and Google Play. But as innovation advances, so do the risks. Since 2022, cyber threats, data privacy concerns, and evolving compliance standards have posed new challenges for developers, businesses, and users alike.
In this blog, we explore the top mobile app risks that have emerged or escalated since 2022 — and what you can do to mitigate them.
1. Insecure Data Storage
Despite growing awareness, insecure data storage remains one of the most critical mobile app vulnerabilities. Apps that store data improperly—whether in plaintext, cache, or unencrypted local storage—are highly vulnerable to breaches.
Real Risk:
If a user’s phone is rooted or jailbroken, malicious actors can easily extract sensitive data like login credentials, personal details, or payment info.
Mitigation:
- Use encrypted storage (e.g., iOS Keychain, Android Keystore).
- Avoid storing sensitive data unless absolutely necessary.
- Implement secure session management.
2. Inadequate Authentication and Authorization
Poor or inconsistent implementation of authentication mechanisms can allow attackers to bypass login or gain unauthorized access to user data.
Since 2022:
There’s been a spike in API abuse and token hijacking, particularly in mobile apps with weak token expiration or refresh logic.
Mitigation:
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Implement OAuth 2.0 and secure token handling.
- Validate user roles and permissions server-side.
3. Third-Party Library Vulnerabilities
Mobile apps often integrate open-source or third-party SDKs. These can be a hidden risk if not properly vetted or updated.
Recent Trends:
Malicious SDKs have been discovered with spyware capabilities or poor encryption practices, leading to data leaks or compliance violations.
Mitigation:
- Regularly update libraries and monitor known vulnerabilities (e.g., CVE database).
- Avoid unnecessary permissions from third-party SDKs.
- Use mobile app security testing tools to assess the entire dependency chain.
4. Improper Platform Usage
Misusing a platform’s built-in features or APIs—such as failing to follow Android/iOS security best practices—can introduce subtle, high-impact vulnerabilities.
Example:
Exposing intent filters improperly or misconfiguring App Transport Security (ATS) on iOS can open backdoors for attackers.
Mitigation:
- Adhere to platform-specific security guidelines.
- Perform regular code reviews and threat modeling.
5. Insecure Communication Channels
Apps that transmit sensitive information without encryption or rely on outdated protocols (like HTTP instead of HTTPS) are easy targets for man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.
Observed Since 2022:
Hackers increasingly target mobile traffic, especially over public Wi-Fi, using fake certificates or compromised routers.
Mitigation:
- Enforce HTTPS with valid SSL certificates.
- Implement SSL pinning where possible.
- Avoid transmitting sensitive data unless necessary.
6. Reverse Engineering & Code Tampering
Many Android apps are easily reverse-engineered using tools like JADX or Apktool, leading to IP theft or malicious clones.
New Risks:
Attackers have been injecting malware into repackaged apps and redistributing them via third-party app stores.
Mitigation:
- Use code obfuscation tools (e.g., ProGuard, R8).
- Integrate tamper detection and runtime integrity checks.
- Monitor for unauthorized versions of your app online.
7. Lack of Compliance with Data Privacy Laws
Since 2022, regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and India’s DPDP Act have evolved—and non-compliance can result in hefty fines and reputational damage.
Common Pitfalls:
- Collecting personal data without proper consent.
- Poor handling of data deletion requests.
- Inadequate data breach response protocols.
Mitigation:
- Implement clear consent flows and privacy policies.
- Allow users to manage their data easily.
- Ensure compliance with local and global privacy laws.
Final Thoughts
Mobile app security is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. As risks evolve, so must your approach to development and testing. Since 2022, the attack surface has expanded dramatically, but with the right security practices in place, you can safeguard your users and your business.
At App Developers Tech, we specialize in building secure, scalable mobile apps from the ground up. Need help with a security audit or a secure app build? Contact us today to get started.