Custom Solutions

Protecting Personal Information: Tips for Consumers and Companies

3 months ago

One key aspect of privacy in the current age is controlling and protecting personal information that is gathered about you over the internet and across other digital mediums. Earlier this month we began our discussion of personal privacy in the digital age with an overview of the practice of data tracking. Data tracking occurs when organizations like online service providers or commerce sites capture everything from your internet search terms, to purchasing habits, to IP location. We reviewed how organizations are leveraging that data, and how to opt out of data tracking if desired.

In this post, our focus is on protecting personal information that people are prompted to provide to execute transactions, browse certain sites, or share online. We all regularly face the requests, so it’s important to think consciously about where you share such data. Further, as business executives, many of you will sit on the other side of the table, making decisions about what kind of personal information to collect from consumers or clients, and how to be effective at doing so. This also requires intentionality, lest you expose someone to undue risk.

Protecting Personal Information

Information like social security numbers, credit card numbers, addresses, and phone numbers are requested by a variety of companies and institutions. Additionally, most people have online accounts that contain health and financial information. As a consumer who is likely to share or digitally store such personal information, it’s your responsibility to manage your cybersecurity.

Here are a few key ways to protect yourself:

Use Strong Passwords: It’s critical to use strong – and different – passwords across your devices, apps, and frequently visited web sites, and do not share your passwords with others. For more sensitive accounts, consider using “two factor” authentication – a system whereby something you know (e.g. the password) is coupled with something you possess (e.g. a phone to which a code is sent) – to increase security. Alternately, leveraging a social login system is efficient and convenient when available. Social logins, or single sign-on systems, enable people to use the password given to one provider as the login credentials for another (e.g. using your Facebook or Google login to access a third party site). Although this practice provides sites like Facebook with information about your actions, it’s generally considered a secure option, since your password isn’t passed along to every site.

Monitor Geo-Location Data: Commonly referred to as “location services,” many apps use local cellular data, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and cell tower location data to track your whereabouts. (The combination of sources works better than GPS alone, and is kinder to battery life.) Sharing your location data enables you to get directions, find nearby restaurants, hail a taxi, map your run, and a myriad of other activities. While the benefit list is long, it’s important to realize you are sharing private information and caution is crucial. For example, a geo-tagged photo you post on social media can allow criminals to know you are in the Bahamas, not at home. When browsing on the internet on your computer, websites can see where you’re located. To prevent this, some people might like to use a proxy service from free-proxy-list.net to make sure their location is hidden whilst they’re browsing. This should increase security.

Limit Stored Credit Card Data: Online purchasing obviously requires a form of payment, and many people use credit or debit cards to make purchases. Most commerce sites/apps offer the ability to save the card information, and while this offers convenience and speed for stores you regularly visit, it also increases the risk of fraud. Limit the places where you store data or consider using a service like PayPal or Google Wallet. While not necessarily more secure than a commerce site, it means just one provider has your account data.

It’s also important to take advantage of lock screens and other security features on your devices. Regularly update your operating systems, as these updates often include patches to address security issues that have been discovered. Further, don’t use potentially insecure public Wifi networks, like those found at airports or cafes, to execute more sensitive transactions like shopping or banking. MIT offers additional safe computing tips.

Collecting and Protecting Others’ Personal Information

Collecting data from consumers is necessary for many businesses to function, but it is a significant responsibility. With the massive data breaches that occur periodically, it’s not surprising that people worry if government agencies and major corporations can protect the data they collect.

Nonetheless, a Columbia Business School study showed that consumers are actually willing to share their personal data, provided they gain added value. According to this study, two main factors determine willingness to share: (1) the trust the person has in the company and (2) the potential added value s/he gets from sharing the data. In other words, “even protective consumers do not mind sharing their personal information as long as they benefit from relevant offers and value.”

According to the study, the type of information consumers were willing to share to gain benefits included: phone numbers, emails, purchase history, social network permissions, and household income. As shown in the graph below, the added value they desired from companies for this information could come in many different forms, from various kinds of financial benefits to recommendations.

This is good news for business owners, and speaks to the value of cultivating trust with your consumer. Being transparent with your intentions, acting with integrity across all business interactions, and offering quality customer service are just a few of the ways to develop a strong brand reputation. If you are a business that handles sensitive information like Social Security numbers, it’s important that you are aware of where the nearest Social Security office in Wyoming, or whichever state you’re in, is to you should this sensitive information ever become compromised.

If you collect data via your app or web site, we encourage you to collect (and encrypt) only the data you need, and to disclose your data usage practices in your privacy policy. Allowing customers to choose what they want to disclose, rather than requiring it from them, is also advisable. If you decide to leverage or integrate with other services like those mentioned above, understand how that impacts your user’s privacy. For instance, if your app leverages Facebook login, are you exposing additional user data to Facebook that it wouldn’t have otherwise? Or are you retrieving data from Facebook that users of your app might not expect?

Privacy is a complex topic, and we invite you to contact us if you’d like to process further how to handle privacy in your app.

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Understanding Custom Solutions in B2B Products

Let’s break it down: custom application solutions are tailor-made software designed to solve specific business challenges. Unlike off-the-shelf products, which are built to cover general needs, custom solutions are designed with your unique workflows, systems, and goals in mind.

There are two main types of custom solutions:

Full Custom Applications: Built from scratch, these applications are crafted specifically for your business, often designed to solve a single, complex problem or to address multiple needs in one tool.
Customized Off-the-Shelf Applications: Sometimes, a base application can be modified to better fit your needs, adding custom features to enhance its functionality.

Many B2B companies find themselves at a crossroads when their annual revenue hits the $5-10 million mark or when they’re experiencing 20%+ year-over-year growth. At this stage, the limitations of off-the-shelf solutions become glaringly apparent, and the need for custom applications becomes critical for continued scalability and efficiency.

Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf: Making the Right Choice

Sticking with ill-fitting off-the-shelf solutions can have serious consequences. Companies risk losing market share to more agile competitors, experiencing data silos that hinder decision-making, and facing increased operational costs due to inefficiencies. By contrast, companies using custom software solutions can increase employee productivity compared to those relying solely on off-the-shelf options.

Flexibility

Custom Solutions: Offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing for modifications as your business evolves. You can design them to adapt to your unique processes rather than forcing you to adapt to the software.
Off-the-Shelf: Typically has a fixed set of features with limited customization options. While updates may occur, they’re based on general market needs, not your specific requirements.

Integration

Custom Solutions: Can be custom-built to integrate seamlessly with your existing tech stack, ensuring smooth data flow and process continuity across your organization.
Off-the-Shelf: May offer integration options, but these are often limited and may require additional middleware or compromises in your workflow.

Cost

Custom Solutions: While initial development costs are higher, custom solutions can offer lower long-term costs due to reduced licensing fees, better efficiency, and lower training and support needs.
Off-the-Shelf: Lower upfront costs, but ongoing licensing fees, the potential need for multiple solutions to meet all requirements, and costs associated with adapting processes can add up over time.

Speed

Custom Solutions: Development time can be longer, but the solution is ready to use immediately upon completion without adaptations.
Off-the-Shelf: Quicker to implement initially, but time spent on workarounds, training, and adapting processes can extend the effective implementation time.

Capabilities

Custom Solutions: Provide a unique tool tailored to your competitive strategy, potentially offering capabilities your competitors don’t have.
Off-the-Shelf: While they can improve efficiency, they don’t offer a distinct competitive advantage as they’re available to all.

Maintenance

Custom Solutions: Require a dedicated support team, in-house or from your development partner. This team will have deep knowledge of your specific solution.
Off-the-Shelf: Offer standardized support, which can be extensive but may not always address your specific needs or use cases.

Where Custom Application Solutions Shine

Sometimes, the features you need just don’t exist in off-the-shelf products. Building something tailored ensures you get exactly what your business requires.

Wondering if it’s time to make the leap? If you find yourself bending over backward to make existing tools work, a custom solution might save you time (and sanity).

When off-the-shelf solutions just don’t cut it, it’s time to go custom. Here are the scenarios where custom applications really shine.

Complex, Industry-Specific Workflows

Consider a B2B logistics company with a proprietary routing algorithm or a SaaS provider with a unique customer onboarding process. Generic software often can’t adequately support these distinctive workflows. Custom solutions can embed these unique processes directly into the software, turning them from operational challenges into competitive advantages.

High-Security Environments

When you’re dealing with sensitive information or high-value transactions, security isn’t just a feature—it’s a necessity. Custom applications allow you to build the exact security measures you need, ensuring that your data—and your client’s—stays safe. Custom solutions let you sleep easy at night in environments where trust is everything.

Rapid Scaling & Frequent Pivots

Fast-growing businesses don’t have time to wait for off-the-shelf software to catch up. Whether you’re scaling from startup to enterprise or pivoting to meet a market shift, custom solutions grow with you. Instead of wrestling with rigid tools, you’ll have a system designed to adapt as you expand so you can focus on the big picture.

Integration-Heavy Tech Stacks

Businesses relying on a wide array of tools need their systems to work together seamlessly. Custom applications make integrating with legacy systems, third-party tools, or other mission-critical software easy. The result? A fully connected, optimized tech stack that improves efficiency across the board.

Innovation-Driven Business Models

If innovation is at the core of your business, you need a custom solution that lets you stand out. Whether you’re digitizing a customer experience or introducing other industry-disrupting products, custom applications give you the flexibility to experiment and push boundaries—because the last thing an innovative company needs is software holding them back.

Case Study in Custom Applications: A B2B SaaS Scalability Dilemma

Imagine you’re the product owner at a hypothetical B2B SaaS company experiencing rapid growth. Your current off-the-shelf CRM and project management tools were great initially, but now they’re struggling to keep up. Here’s how custom software could help in this scenario:

Workflow Integration: Operations require seamless data flow between departments. With custom solutions, workflows can be streamlined, boosting team productivity.
Scalability: As the company scales, so can its software. There will be no more clunky workarounds or limitations—just a system that grows with the company.
Security: Custom security measures help prevent vulnerabilities, reducing risks during expansion into new markets.

Don’t wait until your tools become bottlenecks. If you’re starting to feel the pinch as you grow, it’s time to think custom.

Practical Thinking

Take a moment to assess your current software setup. Are you struggling with limitations, inefficiencies, or security concerns? If so, it might be time to consider a custom solution. It may be helpful to list the specific pain points you’re experiencing and how a tailored application could solve them.

Best Practices for Managing Custom Application Projects to the Finish Line

Ensuring smooth sailing through a custom project requires the right methodologies and communication. Here’s how to keep things on track:

1. Agile Methodologies

Agile methodologies are perfect for custom applications because they allow for iteration and flexibility. By breaking the project into smaller sprints, you can adjust based on stakeholder feedback and user testing, ensuring the final product aligns perfectly with your goals.

2. Effective Communication Between Product & Development Teams

Communication is everything in custom application delivery. Regular check-ins between product owners and development teams can help mitigate misunderstandings and ensure the product timeline stays on track. Tools like collaborative platforms help bridge gaps and keep everyone informed.

The more open the communication, the fewer surprises down the road.

3. Risk Management & Mitigation Strategies

No project is without risk, but anticipating challenges early can save you a lot of pain later. From budget overruns to missed deadlines, having a clear risk management plan will allow you to tackle problems before they derail the entire project.

Concluding Thoughts: Custom Applications as Strategic Assets

In the “sassy” world of B2B SaaS, standing out from the competition is no easy feat. Off-the-shelf solutions might get you started, but they don’t always carry you to the finish line. Custom applications reflect unique B2B processes and drive long-term success. How? By tailoring workflows to your specific needs, seamlessly integrating with your existing tech stack, scaling alongside your business growth, and embedding your proprietary processes directly into your software.

Think about where your business is headed in 2025. What challenges will you face, and what tools will you need to overcome them? If your tech setup can’t answer those questions, it may be time to explore custom application solutions. The companies that win aren’t just the ones with the best ideas—they’re the ones with the right tools to make those ideas a reality.

Custom Solutions

Mobile Device Security: Data Protection on iOS & Android

It may not feel essential to the user experience, but security can make or break it. From cloud security and API security to data protection and encryption, security is a priority, and it helps us build better apps. Apps that protect our users’ data and earn their trust for good reason. In this article, we’ll discuss how to protect user data on both iOS and Android platforms, from first launch to enterprise. Mobile Devices, Data & Privacy Mobile devices constantly collect and share data, making personal privacy an issue. Mobile devices collect various types of user information, including personal details, app usage, and location data. This information can be shared with third parties for purposes such as ad targeting, analytics, and service improvements. However, the extent and nature of this data sharing are not always transparent to users. While companies are required to disclose data collection practices and obtain user consent in some jurisdictions (e.g., under the GDPR in the EU), the implementation and enforcement of privacy laws vary across regions. Some large tech companies, including Google and Meta, have faced significant fines for privacy violations, indicating that regulations like GDPR can hold companies accountable. Both Google and Meta have been fined for privacy violations, demonstrating that GDPR in Europe “has some teeth,” according to Brad Weber. Concerns arise when third parties use collected data in unexpected ways, such as selling it to other companies or using it for purposes beyond what users initially consented to. The lack of consistent, strong privacy protections across all regions leaves many mobile device users vulnerable to potential misuse of their personal information. To protect their privacy, users can take steps such as reviewing app permissions, using privacy-focused browsers and search engines, and supporting initiatives that push for stronger, more uniform privacy regulations globally. As a product owner, prioritize data minimization to protect user privacy. Mobile devices constantly collect and share data, which can be used to track users’ locations, activities, and personal information. Data protection, security, and privacy are crucial components of data well-being, and product owners have a responsibility to safeguard user data. For an app to function properly, it may require access to sensitive information such as the user’s location or contacts list. However, it is essential to obtain explicit user consent before accessing or sharing any such data. Product owners should carefully evaluate the necessity of each piece of data collected and ensure that users are fully informed about how their data will be used. As an iOS developer (or any other type), you should always ask yourself: “Is this necessary?” If not—and if alternative methods are available—you should use those instead. Data is a precious resource—one of the most valuable assets to an organization that must be protected accordingly. With data sharing, less is more. Collecting only what you truly need will help protect your users’ privacy and security from potential hackers who might try stealing sensitive information from them through malware attacks on their mobile phone/tablet devices. As an iOS developer or any other type of developer, always ask yourself: “Is this data absolutely necessary for the app’s core functionality?” If not, and if alternative methods are available, prioritize those options instead. Collecting only the minimum amount of data required not only helps protect users’ privacy but also reduces the potential impact of data breaches. Data is one of the most valuable assets to an organization and must be protected accordingly. By adopting a data minimization approach and collecting only what is truly necessary, product owners can help safeguard users’ privacy and security from potential threats, such as hackers attempting to steal sensitive information through malware attacks on mobile devices. Furthermore, being transparent about data collection practices and providing users with clear options to control their data can help build trust and foster a positive relationship between the app and its users. Regularly reviewing and updating data collection practices in line with evolving privacy regulations and best practices is also crucial for maintaining a strong commitment to user privacy. Android & Apple: How They Handle Security Differently Ensuring the safety of our personal data and privacy is of utmost importance, and that’s where mobile security comes into play. When it comes to this, two of the biggest players in the market are Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android. While iOS is renowned for its closed ecosystem and timely security updates, Android’s strength lies in its open nature. Let’s delve deeper into their respective security mechanisms and compare their attributes. Which is more secure—iOS or Android? In general, iOS is considered to be more secure than Android. This is due to several factors, including: Apple’s Closed Ecosystem: Apple has much more control over the hardware and software that goes into its devices, which makes it more difficult for hackers to find and exploit vulnerabilities. Apple’s Aggressive Security Patching: Apple quickly releases security patches for its devices, which helps keep users safe from known vulnerabilities. Android’s Fragmentation: The Android ecosystem is very fragmented, with many different manufacturers and carriers offering their own operating system versions. This makes it more difficult for Google to release security patches for all Android devices and gives hackers more targets to exploit. However, it is important to note that no operating system is 100% secure. There have been malware and hacking attacks on iOS and Android devices. Ultimately, the security of your device depends on both the operating system and the user’s behavior. Android and iOS devices employ various security measures to keep data safe. Both Android and iOS use strong encryption features to protect data. If a device is stolen, the data cannot be accessed without the encryption key. However, there are differences in encryption methods between the two platforms. Android employs device-specific keys that are unique to each device. This means there is no universal key for all Android devices. Google services like Gmail or Chrome may have separate keys associated with them. Both the device-specific key and the Google key are required to access data. In contrast, iOS uses a combination of device-specific keys and iCloud keys. Even if someone has a device, they still need the iCloud password to access the data. While both platforms have strong encryption features, encryption is not foolproof. It is essential to take additional security measures to keep data safe. Security Features on Android Devices By utilizing data encryption, data accessibility, and other security features, Android devices effectively safeguard data against unauthorized access: Data Encryption: Android’s encryption features have become increasingly sophisticated and robust. All Android devices are encrypted by default, and Android 12 introduces improvements such as enhanced file-based encryption, stronger encryption for sensitive data, and new security features for app developers. Data Accessibility: Android devices use a permission system to regulate app data access. Only apps with granted permissions can access specific data. App permissions can be managed in Settings > Apps & notifications > Advanced > App permissions. Malware: Google Play Protect scans apps for malware and other security threats and monitors devices for suspicious activity. Two-Factor Authentication: Android two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to Android devices and accounts by requiring a code from users’ phones and their passwords when logging in. Android users can enable Android 2FA in Settings > Security > 2-step verification. Find My: Find My Device helps locate lost or stolen devices and allows data erasure, if necessary. Dedicated Storage: Trusty is a dedicated secure subsystem on Android devices that securely stores sensitive data like fingerprint and face scan data. This data is encrypted and can only be accessed by authorized apps with the correct credentials. Security Updates: Google regularly releases security updates for Android, addressing potential vulnerabilities that attackers may exploit. It is important to install these updates promptly. Furthermore, Google’s latest Android operating system introduces new default app security features. Since Android 7.0 Nougat (released in 2016) automatically encrypts all Android devices. The data on the device is protected by a strong encryption key accessible only with the device passcode, PIN, or pattern. Android 12, the latest version, introduces additional security features, including: Enhanced Encryption: Android 12 encrypts files with unique keys, making it harder for attackers to access data even with compromised device encryption keys. Stronger encryption algorithms protect sensitive data like biometric authentication and app credentials. New Security Features for App Developers: Android 12 provides new APIs for developers to implement secure encryption practices. Security Features on iOS Devices iOS devices use a variety of security features to keep your data safe, including: Data Encryption: Using a strong encryption algorithm, iOS devices encrypt all user data by default. This means that if someone were to steal your device or gain unauthorized access to the data, they would not be able to read it without the encryption key. Your device passcode, PIN, or pattern protects the encryption key. Data Accessibility: iOS devices use a permission system to control which apps can access data. This means that apps can only access data you have permitted. You can control app permissions using Settings > Privacy & Security > App Permissions. Malware: Apple does not have a built-in malware scanner for iOS. Instead, Apple relies on several other security features to protect iOS devices, such as: Sandbox: iOS uses a sandbox system to isolate apps from each other and the system. This prevents malicious apps from accessing other apps or system files. Code Signing: All apps on the App Store are code-signed by Apple. This means that Apple has verified the developer’s identity, and the app has not been tampered with. Automatic Security Updates: iOS devices automatically receive security updates from Apple. This helps to keep iOS devices up to date with the latest security patches. Two-Factor Authentication: 2FA is a security feature that adds an extra layer of protection to your account by requiring you to enter a code from your phone and your password when logging in. You can enable 2FA for your Apple ID by going to Settings > Your Name > Password & Security. Find My: Find My is a service that can help you to locate your lost or stolen device. It can also help you erase your device’s data if necessary. Dedicated Storage: Secure Enclave is a dedicated chip that securely stores sensitive data like fingerprint and face scan data. This encrypted data can only be accessed with the iOS user’s passcode, PIN, or pattern. Security Updates: Apple releases security updates for iOS regularly. These updates patch security vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. It is important to install security updates as soon as they are available. Furthermore, the latest iOS release, iOS 16, introduces several new security features and enhancements that help to protect users from a wide range of threats. Some of these features are, notably: Lockdown Mode: Lockdown Mode is a new mode that provides an extreme level of security for users who face targeted threats to their digital security. When Lockdown Mode is enabled, certain features and functionality are limited to help protect users from targeted attacks. For example, most messaging attachments other than images are blocked, and incoming FaceTime calls from unknown callers are prevented. Enhanced Privacy Controls: iOS 16 includes several new privacy controls, such as the ability to choose which apps are allowed to access your location and the ability to see which apps have accessed your clipboard in the past hour. Regarding apps and mobile devices, it’s clear that security is on everyone’s mind. With great convenience comes great responsibility. It’s important to approach security thoughtfully to navigate the digital landscape. Taking Security Further As a developer, you can go beyond what the OS offers by investing in security from the ground up. Taking the right precautions when developing mobile apps can help ensure user data is safe. The first step is to use a secure coding language and development environment. You can also implement specific security measures such as encryption, 2FA, and biometrics authentication. Securing Your First App The first step to ensuring your user data is safe is a secure coding language and development environment. There are many ways that hackers can get access to your app’s code, so it’s important that you use secure coding practices at every step of the process. If you are launching an app for the first time, the most important security things for you to know and implement are: Start with a security-first mindset. Keep security in mind throughout development, from design to implementation to testing. Don’t underestimate the importance of security testing. Hire a security professional to test your app before you release it. Be transparent with your users about how you are protecting their data. Publish a privacy policy and explain to your users how you are using their data. Be responsive to security vulnerabilities. If a security vulnerability is discovered in your app, fix it immediately and release a patch. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your first app is secure and that your users have a positive experience. For enterprise-level data protection, add an extra layer of control. In addition to the above measures, large enterprise apps may also need to consider the following: Implement two-factor authentication for all of your apps. 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your apps by requiring users to enter a code from their phone in addition to their password when logging in. Use biometrics to authenticate users. Biometrics, such as fingerprints and face scans, are a secure way to authenticate users. Use a threat modeling process to identify and mitigate security risks. Threat modeling is a process that helps you to identify and assess potential security threats to your app. Once you have identified the threats, you can implement mitigation strategies to reduce the risk. Implement role-based access control. Role-based access control (RBAC) is a system that controls which users have access to which resources in your app. This helps to prevent unauthorized users from accessing sensitive data or performing unauthorized actions. Implement a zero-trust security model. A zero-trust security model assumes no user or device can be trusted by default. This approach can help protect your app from unauthorized access, even if an attacker can compromise a user’s account or device. In addition to the above measures, large enterprise apps may need to comply with various regulations, such as HIPAA, PCI DSS, and GDPR. These regulations often have specific security requirements that must be met. It is important to educate your employees about security best practices. Security awareness and training will help reduce the risk of human error, a major cause of security breaches. Treat security as a competitive advantage. Mobile app security has become a top priority for businesses of all sizes. With the increasing number of data breaches and cyberattacks targeting mobile apps, users are more discerning than ever about the apps they download and use. Businesses that take mobile app security seriously can gain a significant competitive advantage. Many users need to be made aware of the security features available in mobile apps. Businesses can gain a competitive advantage by highlighting their app’s security features in marketing materials and app store listings. You can also innovate using security to your advantage. Taking mobile app security seriously can increase customer trust, loyalty, and market share. Focus on Security: Case Study For example, security is paramount in the rapidly evolving real estate industry. Buyers, sellers, and agents must be confident that their personal and financial information is safe and secure. inHere understands this and has made mobile app security a top priority. Industry experts have recognized this focus on mobile app security. inHere was nominated as an honorable mention for the Fast Company Security category of the prestigious Innovation by Design Awards. inHere’s focus on mobile app security has helped the company to build a reputation as a trusted and innovative platform for real estate transactions. This reputation has given inHere a competitive advantage in the market. Mobile Device Security Affects Everyone If you take the right precautions when developing mobile apps, you can ensure user data is safe. Personal privacy has become a pressing issue with the advent of mobile devices. With so much data being collected and shared by these devices, developers must be aware of the security and privacy concerns of creating iOS or Android apps. By following best practices when developing your app and keeping up with current trends in mobile technology, you can ensure that users will have peace of mind when using your product.

1 year ago

In this article, we’ll discuss how to protect user data on both iOS and Android platforms, from first launch to enterprise.

Mobile Devices, Data & Privacy

Mobile devices constantly collect and share data, making personal privacy an issue.

Mobile devices collect various types of user information, including personal details, app usage, and location data. This information can be shared with third parties for purposes such as ad targeting, analytics, and service improvements. However, the extent and nature of this data sharing are not always transparent to users.

While companies are required to disclose data collection practices and obtain user consent in some jurisdictions (e.g., under the GDPR in the EU), the implementation and enforcement of privacy laws vary across regions. Some large tech companies, including Google and Meta, have faced significant fines for privacy violations, indicating that regulations like GDPR can hold companies accountable.

Both Google and Meta have been fined for privacy violations, demonstrating that GDPR in Europe “has some teeth,” according to Brad Weber.

Concerns arise when third parties use collected data in unexpected ways, such as selling it to other companies or using it for purposes beyond what users initially consented to. The lack of consistent, strong privacy protections across all regions leaves many mobile device users vulnerable to potential misuse of their personal information.

To protect their privacy, users can take steps such as reviewing app permissions, using privacy-focused browsers and search engines, and supporting initiatives that push for stronger, more uniform privacy regulations globally.

As a product owner, prioritize data minimization to protect user privacy.

Mobile devices constantly collect and share data, which can be used to track users’ locations, activities, and personal information. Data protection, security, and privacy are crucial components of data well-being, and product owners have a responsibility to safeguard user data.

For an app to function properly, it may require access to sensitive information such as the user’s location or contacts list. However, it is essential to obtain explicit user consent before accessing or sharing any such data. Product owners should carefully evaluate the necessity of each piece of data collected and ensure that users are fully informed about how their data will be used.

As an iOS developer (or any other type), you should always ask yourself: “Is this necessary?” If not—and if alternative methods are available—you should use those instead.

Data is a precious resource—one of the most valuable assets to an organization that must be protected accordingly. With data sharing, less is more. Collecting only what you truly need will help protect your users’ privacy and security from potential hackers who might try stealing sensitive information from them through malware attacks on their mobile phone/tablet devices.

As an iOS developer or any other type of developer, always ask yourself: “Is this data absolutely necessary for the app’s core functionality?” If not, and if alternative methods are available, prioritize those options instead. Collecting only the minimum amount of data required not only helps protect users’ privacy but also reduces the potential impact of data breaches.

Data is one of the most valuable assets to an organization and must be protected accordingly. By adopting a data minimization approach and collecting only what is truly necessary, product owners can help safeguard users’ privacy and security from potential threats, such as hackers attempting to steal sensitive information through malware attacks on mobile devices.

Furthermore, being transparent about data collection practices and providing users with clear options to control their data can help build trust and foster a positive relationship between the app and its users. Regularly reviewing and updating data collection practices in line with evolving privacy regulations and best practices is also crucial for maintaining a strong commitment to user privacy.

Android & Apple: How They Handle Security Differently

Ensuring the safety of our personal data and privacy is of utmost importance, and that’s where mobile security comes into play. When it comes to this, two of the biggest players in the market are Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android. While iOS is renowned for its closed ecosystem and timely security updates, Android’s strength lies in its open nature. Let’s delve deeper into their respective security mechanisms and compare their attributes.

Which is more secure—iOS or Android?

In general, iOS is considered to be more secure than Android. This is due to several factors, including:

Apple’s Closed Ecosystem: Apple has much more control over the hardware and software that goes into its devices, which makes it more difficult for hackers to find and exploit vulnerabilities.
Apple’s Aggressive Security Patching: Apple quickly releases security patches for its devices, which helps keep users safe from known vulnerabilities.
Android’s Fragmentation: The Android ecosystem is very fragmented, with many different manufacturers and carriers offering their own operating system versions. This makes it more difficult for Google to release security patches for all Android devices and gives hackers more targets to exploit.

However, it is important to note that no operating system is 100% secure. There have been malware and hacking attacks on iOS and Android devices. Ultimately, the security of your device depends on both the operating system and the user’s behavior.

Android and iOS devices employ various security measures to keep data safe.

Both Android and iOS use strong encryption features to protect data. If a device is stolen, the data cannot be accessed without the encryption key. However, there are differences in encryption methods between the two platforms.

Android employs device-specific keys that are unique to each device. This means there is no universal key for all Android devices. Google services like Gmail or Chrome may have separate keys associated with them. Both the device-specific key and the Google key are required to access data.

In contrast, iOS uses a combination of device-specific keys and iCloud keys. Even if someone has a device, they still need the iCloud password to access the data.

While both platforms have strong encryption features, encryption is not foolproof. It is essential to take additional security measures to keep data safe.

Security Features on Android Devices

By utilizing data encryption, data accessibility, and other security features, Android devices effectively safeguard data against unauthorized access:

Data Encryption: Android’s encryption features have become increasingly sophisticated and robust. All Android devices are encrypted by default, and Android 12 introduces improvements such as enhanced file-based encryption, stronger encryption for sensitive data, and new security features for app developers.
Data Accessibility: Android devices use a permission system to regulate app data access. Only apps with granted permissions can access specific data. App permissions can be managed in Settings > Apps & notifications > Advanced > App permissions.
Malware: Google Play Protect scans apps for malware and other security threats and monitors devices for suspicious activity.
Two-Factor Authentication: Android two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to Android devices and accounts by requiring a code from users’ phones and their passwords when logging in. Android users can enable Android 2FA in Settings > Security > 2-step verification.
Find My: Find My Device helps locate lost or stolen devices and allows data erasure, if necessary.
Dedicated Storage: Trusty is a dedicated secure subsystem on Android devices that securely stores sensitive data like fingerprint and face scan data. This data is encrypted and can only be accessed by authorized apps with the correct credentials.
Security Updates: Google regularly releases security updates for Android, addressing potential vulnerabilities that attackers may exploit. It is important to install these updates promptly.

Furthermore, Google’s latest Android operating system introduces new default app security features. Since Android 7.0 Nougat (released in 2016) automatically encrypts all Android devices. The data on the device is protected by a strong encryption key accessible only with the device passcode, PIN, or pattern.

Android 12, the latest version, introduces additional security features, including:

Enhanced Encryption: Android 12 encrypts files with unique keys, making it harder for attackers to access data even with compromised device encryption keys. Stronger encryption algorithms protect sensitive data like biometric authentication and app credentials.
New Security Features for App Developers: Android 12 provides new APIs for developers to implement secure encryption practices.

Security Features on iOS Devices

iOS devices use a variety of security features to keep your data safe, including:

Data Encryption: Using a strong encryption algorithm, iOS devices encrypt all user data by default. This means that if someone were to steal your device or gain unauthorized access to the data, they would not be able to read it without the encryption key. Your device passcode, PIN, or pattern protects the encryption key.
Data Accessibility: iOS devices use a permission system to control which apps can access data. This means that apps can only access data you have permitted. You can control app permissions using Settings > Privacy & Security > App Permissions.
Malware: Apple does not have a built-in malware scanner for iOS. Instead, Apple relies on several other security features to protect iOS devices, such as:

Sandbox: iOS uses a sandbox system to isolate apps from each other and the system. This prevents malicious apps from accessing other apps or system files.
Code Signing: All apps on the App Store are code-signed by Apple. This means that Apple has verified the developer’s identity, and the app has not been tampered with.
Automatic Security Updates: iOS devices automatically receive security updates from Apple. This helps to keep iOS devices up to date with the latest security patches.

Two-Factor Authentication: 2FA is a security feature that adds an extra layer of protection to your account by requiring you to enter a code from your phone and your password when logging in. You can enable 2FA for your Apple ID by going to Settings > Your Name > Password & Security.
Find My: Find My is a service that can help you to locate your lost or stolen device. It can also help you erase your device’s data if necessary.
Dedicated Storage: Secure Enclave is a dedicated chip that securely stores sensitive data like fingerprint and face scan data. This encrypted data can only be accessed with the iOS user’s passcode, PIN, or pattern.
Security Updates: Apple releases security updates for iOS regularly. These updates patch security vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. It is important to install security updates as soon as they are available.

Furthermore, the latest iOS release, iOS 16, introduces several new security features and enhancements that help to protect users from a wide range of threats. Some of these features are, notably:

Lockdown Mode: Lockdown Mode is a new mode that provides an extreme level of security for users who face targeted threats to their digital security. When Lockdown Mode is enabled, certain features and functionality are limited to help protect users from targeted attacks. For example, most messaging attachments other than images are blocked, and incoming FaceTime calls from unknown callers are prevented.
Enhanced Privacy Controls: iOS 16 includes several new privacy controls, such as the ability to choose which apps are allowed to access your location and the ability to see which apps have accessed your clipboard in the past hour.

Regarding apps and mobile devices, it’s clear that security is on everyone’s mind. With great convenience comes great responsibility. It’s important to approach security thoughtfully to navigate the digital landscape.

Taking Security Further

As a developer, you can go beyond what the OS offers by investing in security from the ground up.

Taking the right precautions when developing mobile apps can help ensure user data is safe. The first step is to use a secure coding language and development environment. You can also implement specific security measures such as encryption, 2FA, and biometrics authentication.

Securing Your First App

The first step to ensuring your user data is safe is a secure coding language and development environment. There are many ways that hackers can get access to your app’s code, so it’s important that you use secure coding practices at every step of the process.

If you are launching an app for the first time, the most important security things for you to know and implement are:

Start with a security-first mindset. Keep security in mind throughout development, from design to implementation to testing.
Don’t underestimate the importance of security testing. Hire a security professional to test your app before you release it.
Be transparent with your users about how you are protecting their data. Publish a privacy policy and explain to your users how you are using their data.
Be responsive to security vulnerabilities. If a security vulnerability is discovered in your app, fix it immediately and release a patch.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your first app is secure and that your users have a positive experience.

For enterprise-level data protection, add an extra layer of control.

In addition to the above measures, large enterprise apps may also need to consider the following:

Implement two-factor authentication for all of your apps. 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your apps by requiring users to enter a code from their phone in addition to their password when logging in.
Use biometrics to authenticate users. Biometrics, such as fingerprints and face scans, are a secure way to authenticate users.
Use a threat modeling process to identify and mitigate security risks. Threat modeling is a process that helps you to identify and assess potential security threats to your app. Once you have identified the threats, you can implement mitigation strategies to reduce the risk.
Implement role-based access control. Role-based access control (RBAC) is a system that controls which users have access to which resources in your app. This helps to prevent unauthorized users from accessing sensitive data or performing unauthorized actions.
Implement a zero-trust security model. A zero-trust security model assumes no user or device can be trusted by default. This approach can help protect your app from unauthorized access, even if an attacker can compromise a user’s account or device.

In addition to the above measures, large enterprise apps may need to comply with various regulations, such as HIPAA, PCI DSS, and GDPR. These regulations often have specific security requirements that must be met.

It is important to educate your employees about security best practices. Security awareness and training will help reduce the risk of human error, a major cause of security breaches.

Treat security as a competitive advantage.

Mobile app security has become a top priority for businesses of all sizes. With the increasing number of data breaches and cyberattacks targeting mobile apps, users are more discerning than ever about the apps they download and use. Businesses that take mobile app security seriously can gain a significant competitive advantage.

Many users need to be made aware of the security features available in mobile apps. Businesses can gain a competitive advantage by highlighting their app’s security features in marketing materials and app store listings.

You can also innovate using security to your advantage. Taking mobile app security seriously can increase customer trust, loyalty, and market share.

Focus on Security: Case Study

For example, security is paramount in the rapidly evolving real estate industry. Buyers, sellers, and agents must be confident that their personal and financial information is safe and secure. inHere understands this and has made mobile app security a top priority.

Industry experts have recognized this focus on mobile app security. inHere was nominated as an honorable mention for the Fast Company Security category of the prestigious Innovation by Design Awards. inHere’s focus on mobile app security has helped the company to build a reputation as a trusted and innovative platform for real estate transactions. This reputation has given inHere a competitive advantage in the market.

Mobile Device Security Affects Everyone

If you take the right precautions when developing mobile apps, you can ensure user data is safe.

Personal privacy has become a pressing issue with the advent of mobile devices. With so much data being collected and shared by these devices, developers must be aware of the security and privacy concerns of creating iOS or Android apps. By following best practices when developing your app and keeping up with current trends in mobile technology, you can ensure that users will have peace of mind when using your product.

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