Mobile Application Penetration Testing

Mobile Application Penetration Testing

Mobile application penetration testing is an advanced security service focused on identifying vulnerabilities specific to mobile operating systems (e.g. Android and iOS). The testing simulates real-world attacks to verify that the application is not exposed to risks such as unauthorized access to sensitive data, manipulation of local storage, bypassing authentication mechanisms, or exploitation of unsecured APIs.

For regulated organizations, particularly in the financial sector, this testing is an essential part of meeting European regulatory requirements such as DORA and NIS2, which emphasize the continuous identification and management of cyber risks throughout the application lifecycle.

Why test mobile applications?

Static security alone is not enough — application resilience must also be verified through controlled attacks in realistic conditions.

Benefit Description
Simulation of real attacks Verifies resilience against vulnerabilities such as insecure data storage or the possibility of code injection.
Verification of application security Testing authentication, encryption of stored data, API access control, and protection against reverse engineering.
Detection of configuration issues Analysis of application permissions, misconfigured components, or exposure of sensitive data.
Review of application logic and backend interaction Identification of weaknesses in input validation, business logic, or client-side validation.
Identification of human factors Weak administrative passwords, unlocked testing accounts, and other risky user behaviors.


What requirements does DORA set regarding penetration testing of mobile applications?

Under the DORA framework, mobile application testing falls under “basic testing”, meaning mandatory routine security verification of systems supporting important business functions. The requirements include:

  • Regular testing at least once per year, or before the deployment of a new major version of the application.

  • Documentation of findings and recommended remediation measures, including their subsequent verification (retesting) and approval by security management.

  • Involvement of third parties, if they participate in the development, management, or operation of the application (e.g. outsourced development or cloud hosting).

 


What are the requirements for testing teams?

DORA emphasizes that application penetration testing must be carried out by qualified and independent experts with experience in application security. They should have:

  • Advanced knowledge of mobile operating systems (Android, iOS) and their security models.

  • Experience with mobile application analysis tools (e.g. Burp Suite).

  • Ability to simulate real attack scenarios, such as reverse engineering, authentication bypass, unauthorized access to storage, or API exploitation.

  • Experience with forensic outputs and reporting of incidents and findings in line with regulatory framework requirements.

  • Independence from development teams, IT operations, and infrastructure providers.

How does testing work in practice?

01

Defining the scope of the test

Definition of the target application, interfaces, and testing type (black/grey/white box).

02

Technical scenario preparation

Selection of tools and techniques based on the application technology and architecture.

03

Simulated attacks

Reverse engineering, encryption testing, API manipulation, and authentication bypass.

04

Results analysis

Assessment of vulnerabilities based on severity and standards such as OWASP / CVSS.

05

Reporting

Technical report with attack details and a management summary for leadership.

06

Follow-up

Consultations, recommendations, and possible retesting after remediation.

Why work with BDO?

BDO provides mobile application penetration testing as part of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. We help organizations identify and remediate technical vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by real attackers. Our approach combines manual testing, scripted automation, and expertise in real-world attack techniques.

  • Regulatory framework expertise
    We understand the requirements of DORA and NIS2 and can tailor testing so that outputs can be used for supervision and audits. We help establish a testing strategy and ensure its alignment with other types of testing (TLPT, penetration testing).
  • Independence and credibility
    As an independent consulting firm, we do not develop our own technologies and provide truly objective assessments. Cooperation with BDO is a clear signal of quality and trust for regulators and clients.


Certified team with professional expertise
Our specialists are certified by organizations such as OSCP, CRTP, ECPPT, BSCP, CEH, CRT, CPSA, CISSP, CCISO and others. They have experience testing large banks, insurance companies, and ICT providers.

CISO CISSP OSCP eCPPT PenTest RedTeam CEH CREST BURPSuite

Main contacts

Martin Hořický
Martin Hořický
Manager • CISO
i View bio
Marek Kovalčík
Partner
i View bio