Simulator detection

The main goal of hackers is to understand the functionality of the application and modify it for illegal purposes. Hackers achieve this by running applications on emulators. Simulators enable hackers to run applications in a controlled environment. The ability of the simulator to replicate the original operating system. When applications run on simulators, they must be able to perceive and respond appropriately.

The simulator will leave behind some artifacts, such as files and processes, which can be used by the application to detect their existence. When the application is equipped with simulator detection function, it can detect the presence of the simulator from processes, registry keys, CPU instructions, and so on.

Prison break detection

Prison break "refers to iOS devices with compromised security. If the device escapes prison, the security controls and restrictions adopted by the manufacturer or service provider will be removed. Your application data and keys are now easily accessible by hackers. Prison break protection is an application hardening method that alerts the application when device security is threatened and prompts it to take appropriate action.

Android Root Detection

This is similar to jailbreak detection, but applies to Android devices. Here, hackers gain root access to Android devices, posing a huge security risk to the applications running on them. There are some known values, such as specific processes, custom builds, and packages, that can usually be found in the event of device jailbreaking or rooting. Rooted detection technology ensures that application data is not abused by actively detecting any security vulnerabilities in the device operating system.

Final idea

Application hardening is an effective measure to protect application IP and prevent repackaging. It is a key component of building a secure software development lifecycle process. Applications that do not use any of the aforementioned technologies for hardening provide hackers with mature opportunities to cause damage in terms of revenue and reputation. When application hardening is implemented in conjunction with other defense mechanisms and security controls, it can enable the application to protect itself from a series of suspicious activity attacks.

Enhance application security dependencies by using layered defense strategies that help disable attack vectors. Application hardening, as part of a layered application security approach, includes techniques for runtime protection, strong authentication, and other defense against several attack scenarios. Although it may not completely eliminate the threat of attacks (nothing can), it will certainly make it more difficult for cyber criminals to break your Safety barrier.