Mobile Application Penetration Testing

Security Testing for iOS and Android Apps and the APIs Behind Them

Mobile application penetration testing is an authorized security assessment of an iOS or Android app and the back-end APIs it relies on, combining static analysis of the app package with hands-on dynamic testing to find weaknesses in data storage, authentication, network communication, and platform interaction. Redbeard Intelligence and Investigations provides mobile app penetration testing for companies that build or publish apps, from teams preparing a launch to organizations facing a partner or enterprise security review.

A phone is an environment you do not control. It can be lost, seized, rooted, or running other apps, and anyone can download your app and take it apart. Our testers examine the app the way an attacker would, then follow its traffic to the server, because the API behind an app often holds the data an attacker wants. Redbeard is based in Florida, and testing is performed remotely using builds and test accounts you supply.

Why Mobile App Security Testing Matters

Mobile apps carry credentials, personal data, and payment details onto devices you cannot control. Testing shows what an attacker, or anyone holding the phone, could recover or abuse.

Each platform is tested on its own terms, from Keychain and Keystore use to platform-specific components.

The back-end services the app calls are tested for authorization flaws, not just the app itself.

Package and code review combined with runtime instrumentation and traffic interception.

A close look at what the app stores in databases, logs, caches, backups, and screenshots.

Findings documented with the care of our digital forensics and cyber investigations practices.

Clear remediation for iOS, Android, and back-end developers, followed by retesting.

What We Test

Data storage — sensitive information in local databases, logs, caches, backups, the clipboard, and app-switcher snapshots, and correct use of the iOS Keychain and Android Keystore.
Authentication and sessions — login flows, biometric unlock, multi-factor steps, and how tokens are stored, refreshed, and expired.
Network communication — TLS configuration, certificate validation, and certificate pinning where used.
Platform interaction — deep links, exported components, WebViews, and requested permissions.
Back-end APIs — whether one user can reach records belonging to another, plus token handling and rate limits.
Code and configuration — hardcoded secrets, weak cryptography, debug settings, and risky third-party SDKs.
Reverse engineering and tamper resistance — root and jailbreak detection, anti-tampering, and obfuscation, which raise the cost of attack but should never be the only control.
Privacy — comparing the data the app collects and sends with what your disclosures say.

Static vs. Dynamic Analysis

Static analysis examines the app without running it. Testers decompile the iOS or Android package, or review source code you provide, looking for secrets, insecure settings, and risky libraries. Dynamic analysis watches the app while it runs: testers use every feature on instrumented devices, intercept and modify traffic, and hook functions at runtime to see what happens when the app’s assumptions are broken. Each method catches issues the other misses, so a thorough test uses both, on stock devices and on rooted or jailbroken ones.

Reference Points: OWASP MASVS and MASTG

Testing is informed by public OWASP resources. The Mobile Application Security Verification Standard (MASVS) groups mobile security requirements into areas such as storage, cryptography, authentication, network, platform, code, resilience, and privacy. The companion Mobile Application Security Testing Guide (MASTG) describes platform-specific techniques. Findings can be mapped to MASVS control groups so developers and partners see which areas need work. These frameworks are reference points; mapping to them is not a formal validation of your app.

How an Engagement Runs

Scoping. Platforms, builds, test accounts for each role, API environments, and any partner or compliance requirements.
Reconnaissance. Mapping the app’s architecture, APIs, and integrations, plus an OSINT review for leaked keys or forgotten endpoints.
Static analysis. Review of the app package and any supplied source.
Dynamic and API testing. Runtime testing on stock and rooted or jailbroken devices, with traffic interception and authorization checks.
Controlled exploitation. Demonstrating impact with test accounts and test data, never real customer records.
Reporting and retest. A walkthrough with your developers, then retesting once fixes ship.

What You Receive

An executive summary for leadership, investors, or partners
Risk-ranked findings mapped to OWASP MASVS control groups
Code locations for each issue when source code is reviewed
Attack paths showing how weaknesses combine
Developer-focused remediation for iOS, Android, and back-end teams
A spreadsheet export, a retest report, and an optional partner-facing summary letter

Authorization and Rules of Engagement

Testing begins only after you confirm that you own the app or have legal authority over it and its back-end systems. Before work starts we require:

Written authorization from the app owner covering the app, its APIs, and the environments involved
In-scope platforms, builds, API hosts, and environments listed in writing, with production and staging clearly identified
Confirmation that cloud, hosting, and third-party API providers permit the testing, with their published rules respected
Dedicated test accounts and test data, so testing does not depend on real user accounts
Signed rules of engagement with emergency contacts and a stop and deconfliction process if testing affects availability or uncovers a live incident

Where possible, dynamic testing targets a staging environment that mirrors production. When production must be tested, rate limits, transaction limits, and agreed windows protect real users.

When to Test and Who It Is For

Mobile app testing is common for banking and fintech, telehealth, dating and social networking, retail payment and loyalty programs, and companion apps for connected devices. Typical triggers include a launch or major release, an enterprise or partner security review, an app marketplace security validation, a reported data exposure, and investor or acquisition diligence. If your app sits alongside web portals and cloud infrastructure, testing can be combined with penetration testing services, and apps with built-in AI assistants may also need AI security testing.

What Affects Cost

Cost depends on the platforms in scope, app size and complexity, the number of user roles and API endpoints, whether source code is provided, the strength of anti-tampering protections, the environment tested, and whether retesting is included. You receive a written scope and estimate before work begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mobile app penetration testing?

Mobile app penetration testing is an authorized security test of an iOS or Android app and the APIs it calls. Testers analyze the app package, run it on instrumented devices, intercept its traffic, and probe the back end to find weaknesses in data storage, authentication, network security, and platform features, then explain how to fix them.

Is source code required for a mobile app penetration test?

No, source code is not required. Testers can decompile and analyze the app build, which mirrors what a real attacker would do. Supplying source code is optional, but it allows deeper coverage, faster analysis, and exact code locations for each finding, which development teams often find helpful when they start fixing issues.

Do we need to test both the iOS and Android versions?

Usually yes, if you ship on both platforms. The two versions are often built with different code, libraries, and storage mechanisms, so a weakness may appear on one platform and not the other. Testing both against the same back-end APIs gives a complete picture, and shared APIs only need to be tested once.

Do you test the API behind the app?

Yes. The back-end API often holds the data an attacker wants, so testing covers whether one user can reach records belonging to another user, how tokens are issued and validated, and whether rate limits hold. API findings are reported alongside app findings, with the OWASP API Security Top 10 as a reference point.

Can apps with certificate pinning or jailbreak detection still be tested?

Yes. Certificate pinning, root and jailbreak detection, and anti-tampering controls are tested as part of the assessment to judge how much effort they add for an attacker. These controls raise the cost of attack but should support, not replace, strong authentication, encryption, and server-side checks. You can also supply a build with them disabled for efficiency.

Explore Redbeard Security Services

What is the cost? | how does it work?

At Redbeard Intelligence & Investigations, we offer upfront, transparent pricing that reflects the specific details and complexity of each case. Instead of vague estimates or hidden charges, we provide clear, upfront pricing tailored to your investigation’s unique requirements—without unexpected fees, hidden costs, or additional unexpected expenses. Our goal is to offer efficient, high-quality investigative and intelligence solutions with transparency and peace of mind.

To begin an investigation, intelligence operation, or technical security assessment, the first step is a confidential consultation via phone or email with one of our experienced professionals. During this initial discussion, we will gather key details about your situation to determine the most effective strategy tailored to your needs. Whether you require private investigative services, intelligence gathering, or technical security solutions, our team will develop a customized plan designed to achieve your objectives. Based on the specific requirements of your case, we will then provide a transparent price quote and/or invoice for the cost of the services needed. Throughout the process, we ensure clear and consistent communication, keeping you informed of any significant developments. Upon completion, you will receive a comprehensive written report detailing our findings, along with any supporting evidence such as photos, video documentation, or technical security assessments.

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