Enterprise Android: Programming Android Database Applications for the Enterprise

Chapter 12

Security

WHAT’S IN THIS CHAPTER?

• Understanding the OS-level security features in Android
• Discussing tools for using Android securely
• Writing secure applications
• Protecting data and communication
• Protecting application IP

WROX.COM CODE DOWNLOADS FOR THIS CHAPTER

Please note that all the code examples in this chapter are available at https://github.com/wileyenterpriseandroid/Examples.git and as a part of the book’s code download at www.wrox.com on the Download Code tab.

Mobile devices present one of the most profitable hacking targets in the average person’s digital world. They contain copious amounts of personal information, often include access to bank and retirement accounts, contain all your contacts, and can access your e-mail. They can also fall, without a sound, out of your pocket. They know where you are, can see your face, and can eavesdrop on your conversations while they sit in your backpack. They might also randomly load malicious code from the phones of other people as they walk nearby in the street. Clearly, the stakes in securing mobile applications are high.

Hacking for profit or espionage has become big business worldwide. Keeping user data safe and developer assets secure requires vigilance on the part of mobile developers and handset owners. This chapter covers Android techniques for enhancing security for both handset users and application developers regarding the following topics:

• Android platform security
• User techniques for keeping phones secure ...