Overview
Attackers can intercept and potentially alter communication between the device and the app’s servers, compromising data integrity and confidentiality. Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks occur when an attacker intercepts and potentially alters communication between a mobile device and a server without either party being aware. These attacks often take place on unsecured or poorly secured networks, such as public Wi-Fi. By positioning themselves between the device and the backend, attackers can capture sensitive data like login credentials, financial information, or personal data. MitM attacks can also be used to inject malicious code or redirect users to malicious websites.
Risk factors
MitM attacks can arise under these conditions:
- Users connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks are at high risk for MitM attacks.
- Using outdated or weak encryption protocols (e.g., SSLv2 or SSLv3) makes it easier for attackers to decrypt intercepted traffic.
- Failing to implement certificate pinning allows attackers to use forged certificates to intercept and modify communication.
- Not using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on public networks leaves data transmission vulnerable to interception.
Consequences
If a MitM attack is successful, the following could happen:
- Data interception: Attackers can capture sensitive information such as login credentials, personal information, or payment details.
- Session hijacking: Attackers can steal session cookies or tokens, allowing them to impersonate users and take over their sessions.
- Data tampering: Attackers can modify the content of intercepted messages, leading to unauthorized transactions or changes in data.
- Phishing or malware injection: Attackers can redirect users to malicious websites or inject malware into the communication stream.
- Commercial damage: Negative impact on business includes reputational harm, potential legal and regulatory concerns, financial losses, fraud, and loss of user trust.
Solutions and best practices
To mitigate the risks associated with MitM attacks, organizations should implement the following security measures:
- Use HTTPS: Ensure that all communications between the mobile app and server are encrypted using HTTPS (TLS/SSL).
- Implement certificate pinning: Use certificate pinning to ensure that the app only communicates with trusted servers, preventing attackers from using forged certificates.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities: Advise users to avoid performing sensitive actions, such as logging into accounts or making transactions, on public Wi-Fi networks without a VPN.
- Use VPNs: Implement VPN solutions to encrypt all data transmitted over public or unsecured networks.
- Application shielding: App shielding can add additional protection by monitoring network connections and preventing tampering with encrypted communication.
