1. Define the Scope

  • Understand the Application:
    • Identify the platform (iOS, Android, or both).
    • Determine the app’s purpose and functionality.
    • Clarify if backend services (APIs, databases, etc.) are included in the scope.
  • Obtain Permission:
    • Ensure explicit authorization from the client or app owner.
  • Identify Testing Environment:
    • Specify if testing will be done on a live app, a staging environment, or a development build.

2. Gather Information (Reconnaissance)

  • Analyze the App:
    • Download the app (from app stores or provided APK/IPA file).
    • Identify third-party libraries and frameworks used.
  • Backend Recon:
    • Enumerate API endpoints.
    • Use tools like Burp Suite or Postman to analyze API requests and responses.
  • Platform-Specific Details:
    • Identify permissions and configurations (e.g., AndroidManifest.xml, Info.plist).

3. Static Analysis

  • Decompile and Analyze the Code:
    • Use tools like APKTool, Jadx, or MobSF for decompilation.
    • Review the codebase for sensitive information (e.g., hardcoded credentials, API keys).
  • Check for Misconfigurations:
    • Review manifest or plist files for excessive permissions.
    • Ensure secure storage of sensitive data.
  • Cryptography Review:
    • Look for weak algorithms (e.g., MD5, SHA1).
    • Verify proper implementation of encryption protocols.

4. Dynamic Analysis

  • Instrument the App:
    • Use tools like Frida, Objection, or Xposed Framework for runtime analysis.
  • Intercept Traffic:
    • Proxy traffic using Burp Suite or mitmproxy to check for:
      • Insecure communication (e.g., HTTP instead of HTTPS).
      • Sensitive data exposure in requests/responses.
  • Test Functionality:
    • Simulate attacks such as authentication bypass, IDOR, and privilege escalation.
  • Test for Reverse Engineering Protection:
    • Assess whether root/jailbreak detection, certificate pinning, and code obfuscation are implemented.

5. Backend/API Testing

  • Test API Endpoints:
    • Look for authentication and authorization flaws (e.g., IDOR, weak tokens).
    • Verify input validation to prevent SQL injection, XSS, or other attacks.
  • Check Rate Limiting and Security Headers:
    • Test for DoS vulnerabilities.
    • Validate presence of headers like CORS, CSP, and HSTS.
  • Verify Storage:
    • Ensure sensitive data is not stored in plaintext.

6. Local Storage and Device Interaction

  • Inspect Local Storage:
    • Check for sensitive data in SQLite databases, shared preferences, or local files.
  • Test for Insecure Logging:
    • Look for sensitive information in logs.
  • Assess Clipboard Use:
    • Verify sensitive data isn’t stored in the clipboard.
  • Check Inter-App Communication:
    • Test for vulnerabilities in deeplinks, intents, and exported activities.

7. Business Logic Testing

  • Simulate Real User Scenarios:
    • Exploit workflows for logical flaws (e.g., bypassing payment systems or multi-factor authentication).
  • Session Management:
    • Test for insecure session tokens, improper session termination, or token reuse.

8. Document Findings

  • Detailed Reporting:
    • Document vulnerabilities with proof of concept (POC) examples, screenshots, or videos.
  • Risk Assessment:
    • Classify vulnerabilities by their CVSS score.
  • Recommendations:
    • Provide actionable recommendations for remediation.

9. Post-Test Activities

  • Retesting:
    • Verify that vulnerabilities are remediated after fixes.
  • Secure Disposal:
    • Safely delete client-provided resources (e.g., APKs, credentials).
  • Knowledge Transfer:
    • Share insights with developers to promote secure coding practices.

10. Tools and Resources

  • Static Analysis:
    • APKTool, JADX, MobSF.
  • Dynamic Analysis:
    • Frida, Objection, Burp Suite.
  • API Testing:
    • Postman, OWASP ZAP.
  • Other:
    • OWASP Mobile Security Testing Guide (MSTG).