Manish Mimami, founder and CEO of Protectt.ai
In the realm of mobile app security, the traditional methods—static passwords, One-time Passwords (OTPs), and Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)—have formed the backbone of user identity verification for years. While these practices have provided layers of security, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Today’s cyber threats extend far beyond merely breaching the login interface; they aim at exploiting what occurs post-login.
Rising Threats in Post-Authentication Environments
Post-authentication fraud is increasingly becoming a significant concern, particularly in mobile-centric sectors such as Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), fintech, and digital commerce. Cybercriminals are now bypassing traditional identity verifications by infiltrating runtime environments, targeting APIs, or leveraging vulnerabilities in devices. Often, they accomplish these feats without even interacting with user credentials.
The prevalent misconception among many is that a secure login equates to a secure app. This belief could not be further from reality!
The Risks Beyond Initial Login
**Runtime Vulnerabilities:** After logging in, many applications mistakenly assume that their environment remains secure. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
- Malware, repackaged applications, and overlay attacks exploit these runtime weaknesses.
- Cybercriminals can hijack active user sessions to execute unauthorized transactions from within the app.
**Compromised Devices:** A secure application on a rooted or jailbroken device is inherently at risk.
- Malicious overlays, screen-sharing applications, and insecure environments create hidden entry points for attackers.
**Unsecured API Endpoints:** Many fraud attempts circumvent the user interface altogether.
- Weak APIs are prime targets for token replay attacks, man-in-the-middle exploits, and automated fraud schemes.
As a result, most defenses fail at the post-authentication stage, leaving a significant gap in security.
A Comprehensive Approach to App Security
The solution to these escalating post-authentication threats requires a more integrated approach—one where security is woven into the app from the ground up.
Embedding Protection with Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP)
- RASP operates within the application itself, identifying and blocking malicious activities in real time.
- This tool is effective against tampering, reverse engineering, overlay attacks, and session hijacking.
- Unlike conventional perimeter defenses, RASP offers protection for every user interaction, regardless of the network, device, or location, effectively transforming the app into an active defender.
Ensuring Continuous Device Integrity
- Assessment of device trustworthiness should happen at every interaction.
- Detection of rooted or jailbroken devices, as well as the presence of malicious tools, is essential.
- Implementing adaptive responses can limit high-risk actions or block sensitive functions altogether.
Securing the API Layer Thoroughly
- View APIs as critical points of vulnerability.
- Enhance security through encryption, robust authentication, behavioral monitoring, and anomaly detection.
- By fortifying API security, businesses can halt fraud before it circumvents the user interface.
Understanding the Full Scope of Mobile App Security
While robust login protocols remain essential, they no longer encompass the entirety of app security. A comprehensive strategy should involve:
- The implementation of RASP for in-app defensive measures.
- Ensuring device integrity for trusted environments.
- Securing APIs to defend against concealed attacks.
Cybercriminals have adapted to the evolving landscape, necessitating a shift in how we approach security. The challenge is no longer limited to just safeguarding the OTP—it extends to protecting activities that follow successful authentication.
For mobile-first industries, including BFSI, fintech, and digital commerce, investing in this strategic transition is vital to safeguard their digital assets. While authentication is an initial step, RASP fortifies the journey towards comprehensive protection.
