Android Security Internals

Introduction

In a relatively short period of time, Android has become the world’s most popular mobile platform. Although originally designed for smartphones, it now powers tablets, TVs, and wearable devices, and will soon even be found in cars. Android is being developed at a breathtaking pace, with an average of two major releases per year. Each new release brings a better UI, performance improvements, and a host of new user-facing features which are typically blogged about and dissected in excruciating detail by Android enthusiasts.

One aspect of the Android platform that has seen major improvements over the last few years, but which has received little public attention, is security. Over the years, Android has become more resistant to common ...