Best practices to fortify iOS app security

In an increasingly mobile-centric world, ensuring the security of iOS applications has become paramount as cybercriminals look for new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. Yes, Apple indeed follows a strict policy on enforcing user privacy and data use but those involved in iOS app development must look to implement the best security practices. Recently, TechCrunch published an article about the biggest data breaches of  2024 leading to more than one billion records being stolen. 

This brings us to the core discussion about prioritizing safeguarding the app’s data and user privacy. The blog explores the most effective practices to fortify iOS app security against evolving threats.

Implement strong authentication & authorization mechanisms

The road leading to enhanced and unmatched iOS app security passes through robust authentication. Weak passwords, shared credentials, and improper authentication mechanisms invite mobile data breaches. Apple offers various viable solutions to combat such issues. For example, the Sign in With Apple feature restricts data exposure by using a randomly generated email address.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) and OAuth 2.0 authorization protocols also help to bolster iOS app security. Tech giant Microsoft published an article claiming that apps with multi-factor authentication reduce the likelihood of account breaches by 99.9%. Incorporating such mechanisms not only deters unauthorized access but also ensures user trust.

Incorporate strong data encryption techniques 

The next iOS application security practice that you must follow is securing your data with robust encryption techniques. If you view the current scenario, several companies are implementing data encryption to safeguard their sensitive information, while during transit and at rest. 

Here you do not worry much as you will receive comprehensive support from Apple’s Data Protection API, which allows you to encrypt app data using the device’s passcode. Also, there are  Keychain Services that store user credentials, while Cryptographic Services provide robust encryption.

Here, we can cite the example of WhatsApp which introduced amplified end-to-end for message backups. The messaging platform emphasized the security of comprehensive data  – whether stored on the device or in the cloud. So, you simply cannot overlook data encryption at a crucial juncture when IDC has estimated that 175 zettabytes of data will be generated by 2025. 

Enforcing App Transport Security (ATS)

You must implement and use App Transport Security (ATS) as this is a mandatory requirement based on Apple’s security policy since the launch of iOS version 9.0. According to the set guidelines, your apps must only connect to highly secured HTTPS servers, Here, you must also know the role of ATS, which encrypts the data exchanged between an app and a server, safeguarding against man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, where hackers intercept and alter communications.

Several popular articles suggest that MITM attacks have significantly increased in recent years, exploiting communication vulnerabilities. However, you can enforce ATS compliance properly to minimize the risk of data interception. Additionally, you can also conduct  SSL pinning to secure communications by ensuring that an app only trusts a pre-defined certificate, adding another layer of protection.

Regular Security Updates and Patching

Well, you might say that this is a quite common security practice to mitigate cyber attacks and vulnerabilities but quite an important one that cannot be ignored. Regular security updates and patches are essential to keep your app secure. Here too, you can take full advantage of Apple’s Xcode tool to automate the process of evaluating outdated libraries and dependencies. 

If you follow Apple’s official newsroom website, you will come to know that the company continuously patches iOS vulnerabilities at regular intervals to secure user devices and data from exposed threats and potential attacks.  However, it is quite surprising to note that according to IBM’s report, ransomware victims have saved about $4,70,000 by enforcing strict data breach laws. 

Secure Backend Servers and API Endpoints 

No matter how secure your app is, it’s only as safe as its backend infrastructure. You must note that the application backend has become the prime and soft target for the cyber attackers, seeking access to private data. Hence, you must look to hire iOS developers having profound expertise in developing robust application programming interfaces and database management solutions. You must secure these servers with strong firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and DDoS protection.

Moreover, securing API endpoints is crucial, as these can be targeted for unauthorized data access. According to the latest Salt Security State of API Security Report, published in June 2024, 95% of the survey respondents have experienced API security issues driven by API usage. 

Prioritize User Data Privacy

Data privacy is no longer a luxury but a legal and ethical necessity. You must follow and strictly comply with privacy laws such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) in the EU and CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act) in the U.S., ensuring users have control over their data. Apple has taken significant steps with its Privacy Nutrition Labels, introduced in 2020, requiring developers to disclose how they collect and store user data.

Also, various surveys and studies suggest that people are more likely to download apps that communicate how their data will be used.  We can certainly say that if you prioritize transparency and data minimization, you can build trust and compliance with regulations.

Detect and Prevent Jailbreaking

Jailbroken devices allow users to bypass Apple’s security restrictions, making apps on such devices vulnerable to exploitation. You can detect jailbroken devices using libraries like Jailbreak Detection, which flags unauthorized modifications.

Preventing app access on these devices reduces the risk of tampering, unauthorized code execution, and piracy, all of which can compromise the app’s integrity and data security.

Secure APIs with OAuth and Use API Gateways

APIs are critical to modern iOS applications, facilitating data sharing and functionality with external services. However, poorly secured APIs are often a weak point in app security. To protect APIs, developers should use OAuth 2.0 for secure authorization and implement API gateways to manage traffic and block unauthorized requests.

The 2023 Survey Report of ESG Research published in Palo Alto, says that according to 94% of organizations, API is the most crucial security feature to identify APIs with sensitive data. Also, we came across a case study on Twitter’s API breach that revealed how improperly secured APIs can lead to unauthorized data access, reinforcing the need for rigorous API protection.

Leverage Apple Security Frameworks

Apple offers a variety of security frameworks that developers can leverage to bolster app security. The Secure Enclave stores biometric data, while CryptoKit provides easy-to-use cryptographic functionalities like hashing and encryption. For process isolation, App Sandbox is a powerful tool that restricts apps from accessing files or resources they shouldn’t.

These frameworks are widely adopted in sensitive apps like those in healthcare or finance. For example, apps like Bank of America use CryptoKit to encrypt user data and Secure Enclave for Face ID authentication, ensuring high levels of security.

Educate Users on App Security Best Practices

User awareness is a key factor in preventing security breaches. Many attacks, such as phishing or social engineering, exploit user behavior rather than technical flaws. Developers should educate users on how to secure their devices, avoid untrusted networks, and update apps regularly.

Companies like Dropbox send regular security reminders to users, promoting strong password habits and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). These practices significantly reduce the chances of user-driven breaches, improving overall app security.

Ensure  the Future of Secure iOS Applications

Here, in this article, we have briefly discussed the ten most viable and effective security iOS application security practices, implementing which you can make your apps more secure and safe for browsing. At the same time, it also helps to enhance user experience and reliability, leading to more downloads and installations. 

By adhering to these best practices—ranging from encryption and multi-factor authentication to securing API endpoints and regular penetration testing—you can significantly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities and breaches.

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