If developers fail to encrypt or securely store data, malicious actors could access sensitive personally identifiable information. This usually occurs when developers incorrectly assume users or malware cannot access certain device or system files.​

Client code quality issues arise when third-parties can pass untrusted code as inputs that the app will execute. While this isn’t always a security vulnerability, hackers can exploit code quality issues to execute malicious code as well.

Most mobile apps leverage backend systems for data storage and resource-intensive functionality, but this creates an attack vector that may allow hackers to eavesdrop or intercept unsecured communications.​

For a proactive security mindset to be firmly established within an organization, in many cases what’s needed is a change in culture. This change must begin with senior management and permeate through all departments. But it does come with its benefits.