This is the introduction of this brand new series where I share my journey into Mobile Application Penetration Testing including resources and advice I get from experts in this field and hopefully help you along the way. So, let's dive in!

Introduction

Mobile Application Penetration Testing is a way to test the security of mobile apps. As mobile apps become more popular, it's important to make sure they are secure from hackers. In this article, we will cover the basics of Mobile Application Penetration Testing.

Action step: Take a moment to think about why it's important to test the security of mobile apps.

Preparing for Mobile Application Penetration Testing

Before you can start testing, you need to prepare your test environment. This includes setting up a test device, installing the app you want to test, and configuring your testing tools.

Action step: Set up your test environment following a tutorial or guide.

Techniques for Mobile Application Penetration Testing

There are different techniques you can use to test the security of mobile apps. These include Information Gathering, Static Analysis, Dynamic Analysis, and Network Analysis.

Information Gathering involves gathering information about the app, such as its architecture, features, and user input validation.

Static Analysis involves analyzing the app's code without running it. This can help you find vulnerabilities such as hard-coded secrets, insecure storage, and code injection.

Dynamic Analysis involves running the app and observing its behavior. This can help you find vulnerabilities such as input validation errors, authentication and authorization issues, and insecure communication.

Network Analysis involves analyzing the communication between the app and its server. This can help you find vulnerabilities such as man-in-the-middle attacks, unencrypted communication, and insecure API endpoints.

Action step: Try out each technique on a sample app to get familiar with them.

Resources for Mobile Application Penetration Testing

There are many resources available for Mobile Application Penetration Testing. These include mobile penetration testing tools, mobile security testing frameworks, mobile app pen-testing labs and challenges, and mobile application security guidelines and checklists.

Some popular mobile penetration testing tools are Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, and Frida.

Some popular mobile security testing frameworks are MobSF and Drozer.

Some popular mobile app pen-testing labs and challenges are OWASP Mobile Security Testing Guide and Damn Vulnerable iOS App.

Some popular mobile application security guidelines and checklists are OWASP Mobile Application Security Verification Standard and Android Security Guide.

Action step: Explore some of the resources listed above and try them out on a sample app.

Conclusion

Mobile Application Penetration Testing is an important part of ensuring the security of mobile apps. By preparing your test environment, using different techniques, and leveraging available resources, you can effectively test the security of mobile apps.

If you want to learn more about Mobile Application Penetration Testing, follow me on this challenging but fulfilling journey.