Android Security Testing

Overview

Android security testing covers static analysis (decompiling APKs, reviewing code and configurations), dynamic analysis (runtime instrumentation, hooking, traffic interception), and identifying common vulnerabilities in Android applications. Android's open architecture and APK format make it more accessible for security testing than iOS.

Topics in This Section

• Android Testing Setup — emulator configuration, device prep, tool installation
• Android Static Analysis — APK decompilation, manifest review, code analysis with jadx and apktool
• Android Dynamic Analysis — runtime hooking with Frida, objection, logcat monitoring, and traffic interception
• Android Common Vulnerabilities — insecure storage, exported components, WebView issues, and other OWASP Mobile Top 10 findings

General Approach

1. Setup — prepare a rooted emulator or device, install tools, configure proxy for traffic interception
2. Reconnaissance — identify the app's package name, permissions, exported components, and target SDK version
3. Static analysis — decompile the APK, review AndroidManifest.xml, search for hardcoded secrets, analyze code logic
4. Dynamic analysis — hook methods at runtime, bypass client-side controls, monitor logs and network traffic
5. Reporting — document findings with evidence and remediation guidance