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Delve into a comprehensive checklist, your ultimate companion for Android app penetration testing. Identify vulnerabilities in network, data, storage, and permissions effortlessly. Boost security skills with essential tools and user-friendly guides. Elevate Android security seamlessly!

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Android App Pentesting Checklist

Welcome to the "Android App Penetration Testing Checklist" Repository! Explore the ultimate companion for Android app penetration testing, meticulously crafted to identify vulnerabilities in network, data, storage, and permissions effortlessly. This repository merges a comprehensive checklist of tasks and cutting-edge techniques, providing security professionals with a robust framework for a thorough security assessment of Android applications. The checklist covers a range of topics, including: Static analysis: reviewing the app's source code and resources for potential vulnerabilities Dynamic analysis: analyzing the app's behavior and interactions with the device and network during runtime Network analysis: analyzing the app's communication with servers and other external resources over the network Permission analysis: reviewing the app's requested permissions and assessing whether they are appropriate and secure Cryptographic analysis: reviewing the app's use of cryptography and ensuring that it is implemented securely Data storage analysis: analyzing the app's handling of sensitive data, including how it is stored and transmitted This checklist is intended as a starting point for penetration testers and bug bounty hunters to identify common security issues in Android applications. It is not a comprehensive guide to all possible security issues and should be used in conjunction with other resources and best practices.

Table of Content

Android Applications Penetration Testing Checklist (v1.1)
Important Tools
Tools Installation/Setup

Prerequisites

Hardware requirements

Software/Tools prerequisites

1. Java (Jdk)
2. Python/Python3
3. Genymotion
4. Docker
5. Android Debug Bridge (adb)
6. Magisk

MobSF Installation on Docker
MobSF Installation on Physical Machine

Android Applications Penetration Testing Checklist (v1.1)

C01	SSL Pinning	Discovered	Undiscovered
An SSL pinning vulnerability in an Android app occurs when the app does not properly verify the server's SSL certificate or public key during the SSL/TLS handshake process, allowing a man-in-the-middle attacker to intercept and decrypt the app's communication.
1	Missing SSL Pinning
2	Check if is it bypassable or not using Frida/Objection
3	Check code manipulation possible or not

C02	Root Detection	Discovered	Undiscovered
A root detection vulnerability in an Android app occurs when the app does not properly detect and prevent access by rooted devices, allowing users to potentially gain unauthorized access to the app's data or functionality.
1	Missing Root Detection
2	Check if is it bypassable or not using frida/Objection
3	Check that internal logic flow can be modified or not

C03	Emulator Detection	Discovered	Undiscovered
An emulator detection vulnerability in an Android app occurs when the app does not properly detect and prevent access by emulators, allowing users to potentially bypass security controls or access unauthorized functionality.
1	Missing Emulator Detection
2	Check if is it bypassable or not using frida

C04	Sensitive data in ADB Logcat Logs	Discovered	Undiscovered
A sensitive data in ADB Logcat vulnerability in an Android app occurs when the app logs sensitive data, such as passwords or personal information, to the system log using Android Debug Bridge (ADB), potentially exposing the data to attackers or unauthorized users.
1	Check Logcat logs for sensitive information/data
2	Check if is it bypassable or not using frida/Objection
3	Check for any unencrypted request/data in Logcat logs

C05	Sensitive data/info stored in Local Storage	Discovered	Undiscovered
A sensitive data stored in local storage vulnerability in an Android app occurs when the app stores sensitive data, such as passwords or personal information, in unencrypted or unsecured local storage on the device, potentially exposing the data to attackers or unauthorized users.
1	Check for sensitive information/data store on Shared Preferences or not
2	Check for any information/data stored in temporary files or not
3	Check if sensitive information/data is stored in the local storage database using strong encryption on or not
4	Check for any information/data stored in any other files or not

C06	Sensitive data/info in Application Memory	Discovered	Undiscovered
A sensitive data in application memory vulnerability in an Android app occurs when the app stores sensitive data, such as passwords or personal information, in memory in an unencrypted or unsecured manner, potentially exposing the data to attackers or unauthorized users who have access to the device's memory.
1	Check for any sensitive information/data temporarily stored on Application Memory or not[ Use fridump.py (https://github.com/Nightbringer21/fridump/blob/master/fridump.py) ]

C07	Weak Signer Certificate	Discovered	Undiscovered
A weak signer certificate vulnerability in an Android app occurs when the app is signed with a weak or compromised certificate, potentially allowing attackers to modify the app or gain unauthorized access to the app's functionality.
1	Check if the app signed with a weak algorithm such as "SHC1withRSA"
2	Check for Janus Vulnerability
3	Check for the application if is it signed with debug certificate or not

C08	Vulnerable Android Activities	Discovered	Undiscovered
Android activities are components of an Android app that represent a screen or part of the app's user interface. A vulnerable Android activity is one that contains vulnerabilities, such as insecure coding practices or the use of third-party libraries with known vulnerabilities, that could be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to the app's data or functionality.
1	Check for the protected activity that can be accessible by calling the activity from the ADB bypassing the Authentication activity (Authentication Bypass)Example: An application having a login screen if login is successful the app launch the second activity, and any user has to authenticate herself. But that can bypass though ADB by calling the second activity directly from ADB
2	Check for exported android activity is set false, and check for the android activity can activity can be launched by any other applications or not
3	Check if any of the application activities can be hijacked through ADB or any others tools
4	Check if any of the application activities cause the Denial of Service or App crash

C09	WebView	Discovered	Undiscovered
Android WebView is a component of an Android app that allows the app to display web content within the app's user interface. It can contain vulnerabilities, such as insecure coding practices improper validation, etc.
1	Check for Cross sites scripting vulnerability in android activity WebView
2	Check for Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability in android activity WebView
3	Check for insecure JavaScript enabled for WebView

C10	Intent Filters	Discovered	Undiscovered
Intent redirection is an embedded intent it can be implicit or explicit Intent which is used to move one android component to another component. This vulnerability occurs when the developer does not retrieve the intent data via filtering. This vulnerability is similar to OpenRedirect for web security.
1	Check for intent spoofing or intent sniffing vulnerabilities (those can occur when the developer does not retrieve the intent data via filtering)

C11	Broadcast Receivers	Discovered	Undiscovered
A vulnerable Android Broadcast Receiver is a component of an Android app that allows the app to receive and respond to system-wide broadcasts, such as the receipt of a text message or the disconnection of a charger. It can be exploited
1	Check the manifest file for the receiver tag and the exported attribute if it is True and if there is no other permission is set. It can be exploited.

C12	Content Provider	Discovered	Undiscovered
Content providers in Android are used to share data between applications. They use standard insert, update, delete, and query methods to access data and are assigned a special URI starting with "content://". If proper security controls are not implemented, it can lead to the leakage of information. An example of a content provider is the built-in SMS application, which can be accessed by other apps using a specific URI and the READ_SMS permission. There may be cases where content providers are not implemented for sharing data or where access is restricted to apps with proper permissions.
1	If security controls are not properly implemented, content providers can lead to SQL injection.
2	If security controls are not properly implemented, content providers can lead to Path Traversal.
3	If security controls are not properly implemented in content providers, it may lead to internal data access vulnerability

C13	Source Code Obfuscation	Discovered	Undiscovered
Source code obfuscation in Android is the process of making the source code of an Android app difficult to understand or reverse engineer, typically to protect intellectual property or prevent unauthorized modifications.
1	Check for Code Obfuscation(PRO Guard) implemented or not
2	If Code Obfuscation is implemented partially check for the main sensitive codes is properly obfuscated

C14	Sensitive Information/Auth-Keys Hardcoded	Discovered	Undiscovered
Hardcoded information vulnerability is the practice of storing sensitive data, such as passwords or security keys, directly in the source code of an application, potentially exposing the data to attackers or unauthorized users who have access to the source code.
1	Check the Source Code for any hardcoded API Key/Token, Auth-Key, Passwords, Credentials, etc.(This task can be automated by using tools like MobSF)

C15	Insecure Coding Practice	Discovered	Undiscovered
Insecure coding practice refers to the use of coding techniques or practices that do not adequately protect an application or system from security vulnerabilities or threats, such as using weak passwords or failing to properly validate user input. Insecure coding practices can make an application or system more susceptible to attacks or data breaches. To prevent insecure coding practices, developers should follow best practices for secure coding and regularly review and test their code for vulnerabilities.
1	Check for use of Insecure Random Number Generator functions (Like generating guessable OTP)
2	Check for use of Insecure functions or insure functions/objects calling
3	Uses of weak cryptography or easily reversible encryption method (like MD5 Hash, Base64 Encoding)
4	Check for any other Insecure Coding Weakness presence

C16	Insecure Deeplinks	Discovered	Undiscovered
Insecure deeplinks in Android can allow attackers to access sensitive data or functionality within an app. Developers can prevent this by validating and securing deeplinks and implementing appropriate security controls.
1	Check for any explicit deeplink that PendingIntent to a specific location within the application
2	Check for any implicit deeplink that refers to a specific destination in an app when the deeplink is invoked

C17	Missing Integrity Checks	Discovered	Undiscovered
Integrity checks in Android refer to the process of verifying the authenticity or integrity of an app's source code, to ensure that it has not been tampered with or modified by an unauthorized party. This can help protect against attacks that aim to inject malicious code or modify the app's functionality, such as man-in-the-middle attacks or repackaging attacks.
1	Decompile the application, modify its code, recompile it, and sign it to check if it still functions properly or not.

C18	Insecure Android Permissions	Discovered	Undiscovered
Android applications have a number of permissions that can be set in the "AndroidManifest.xml" file. If these permissions are not properly filtered or validated, they can be exploited.
1	Check for clear text traffic option enable or not in "AndroidManifest.xml" file
2	Check for debug mode option enable or not in "AndroidManifest.xml" file
3	Check for dataExtractionRules properly defined or not in "AndroidManifest.xml" file
4	Check for backup mode option enable or not in "AndroidManifest.xml" file
5	Check for any other Unnecessary Permission in "AndroidManifest.xml" file

C19	Background Screen Caching	Discovered	Undiscovered
Screen caching is a mobile vulnerability, caused due to a performance/usability feature present in mobile OS’s.
1	Check for screenshots are taken when the application is sent to background

C20	Insecure Firebase Database	Discovered	Undiscovered
Firebase Database is a cloud-based real-time database service that allows developers to store and sync data across multiple devices and platforms.
1	Append ".json" payload at the end of Firebase instance to see if "read" permission are enable or not
2	Also try replacing "firebaseio.com" with "appspot.com" with "/.json" appended at the end may allow you to access appspot instance. (Check for CORS in Firebase)

C21	Android Lock/Biometric Authentication Bypass	Discovered	Undiscovered
Some applications use the Android Screen Lock/Biometric Authentication to validate the user before providing any specific service or before launching the application's main interface.
1	If the application uses Android Lock/Biometric Authentication check for that can be bypassed or not in runtime by runtime hooking or code level modification

C22	Key-Checks in Dynamic Analysis	Discovered	Undiscovered
Some applications use the Android Screen Lock/Biometric Authentication to validate the user before providing any specific service or before launching the application's main interface.
1	Checks for all possible the possible test cases that’s are applicable on API Check (Use a comprehensive API checklist)
2	Check for Broken Access Controls and Authentications (Checks mainly in server side)
3	Checks for Server-Side Injections and Security misconfigurations
4	Check for Sensitive Data exposer
5	Fuzzing

C-	Some Other Checks	Discovered	Undiscovered
N/A
1	Check for the application doesn't reuse the same cryptographic key for multiple purposes
2	Check for any sensitive data or information exposed through the user interface or leaks to screenshots or not
3	Check for whether the keyboard cache for the application is disable or not
4	Check the application does not allow users to copy/paste any secret data (like passwords, credit card info, etc)
5	Check if the sensitive data is not masked when performing app switching
6	Check for the Third-Party Keyboard applications that are disabled specifically in the sensitive fields

NB: This list does not follow the OWASP vulnerability indexing order.

Important Tools

Mobile Security Framework (MobSF) (Link)
Runtime Mobile Security (RMS) (Link)
Pen-Andro (Link)
Burp Suite (Link)
Postman (Link) for API's
Yaazhini (Link)
House (Link)
Apktool (Link)
Easyapktool (Link) Discontinued
APKToolGUI(New) (Link) Easyapktool Alternative
Genymotion (Link)
Frida (Link)
Magisk (Link)
Magisk-Frida (Link)
Frida-tools (Link)
Drozer (Link)
Objection (Link)
JD-GUI (Link)
JADX (Link)
Dex2Jar (Link)
ApkLeaks (Link)
Fridump (Link)
Sqlite Browser (Link)
Radare2 (Link)
Nuclei (Link)
XMLStarlet (Link)
ADB (Link)
zipalign (Link)

Tools Installation/Setup

As you explore this repository further, please be aware that certain actions, such as bootloader unlocking, Magisk installation, and rooting techniques, come with inherent risks. Your device's warranty may be voided, and there's a potential for data loss, instability, or even "bricking" your device.
Rooting exposes your device to security risks, and it may no longer receive official updates, leaving it vulnerable. This information is shared for educational purposes only, and I take no responsibility for any damage, data loss, or malfunctions that may occur.
By proceeding, you acknowledge and accept all risks involved, and it is advisable to fully understand the consequences before implementing any changes.

Prerequisites

Hardware requirements

Windows/Linux (preferred Kali-Linux).
USB Cable
An android device with Bootloader unlocked
- How to unlock Bootloader ? (Link)
Software/Tools prerequisites

Before you start testing Android apps, make sure to install the necessary tools on both your computer (Linux/Windows) and the Android device itself.

1. Java (Jdk) (Link)
- Download Java JDK version 17 or up according to your system(Download Link)
- Install JDK to your system
2. Python/Python3 (Link)

Python3 installation for Debian or Ubuntu based linux distributions:
```
sudo apt-get update
```
```
sudo apt-get -y install python3 python3-pip
```
Python installation for Windows:
- Download Windows installer of Python from official website (Link)
- Double click the installer
- Check 'Add python.exe to PATH' checkbox
- Click on 'Customize installation'
- Check 'pip' checkbox
- Check 'Python test suite' checkbox
- Check 'py launcher' checkbox
- Check 'for all users (requires admin privileges)' checkbox
- Click next to install python
3. Genymotion (Link)
- Create a free account on Genymotion website
- Follow this official instruction to install Genymotion on Linux. Instruction
- Follow this official instruction to install Genymotion on Windows. Instruction
4. Docker (Link)

Docker installation for Debian or Ubuntu based linux distributions:
```
sudo apt-get update
```
```
sudo apt-get -y install docker.io
```
```
systemctl start docker
```
NB: If you are using other than Debian or Ubuntu based Linux, read this instruction to install docker according to your operating system.

Docker installation for Windows:
- Download Docker Desktop (Link)
- Double click to install
5. Android Debug Bridge (adb) (Link)

adb installation for Debian or Ubuntu based linux distributions:
```
sudo apt install adb
```
```
wget -c https://dl.google.com/android/repository/platform-tools-latest-linux.zip
```
```
unzip platform-tools-latest-linux.zip
```
```
cd platform-tools
```
give executable permission
```
chmod +x ./adb chmod +x ./fastboot
```
Check adb working or not
```
./adb version
```
adb installation for Windows:
- Download adb-setup.zip
- Extract the downloaded zip
- Double click on adb-setup-1.4.3.exe
- In CMD window select Y for all options
- Install the Google USB driver. (The installer will automatically run once the fastboot setup is complete)
6. Magisk (Link)

Pre-requirement:
- An android device with Bootloader unlocked
- USB Cable
- A pen-drive and OTG cable or SD card
Magisk installation for unlocked bootloader devices:
- Install custom recovery
  We need to install a custom recovery before installing magisk
  - Download a custom recovery for your Android device, such as TWRP / OrangeFox / PitchBlack onto your desktop.
  - Rename the downloaded recovery (.img) filename to "recovery.img" (without quote)
  - Enable usb debugging on your android device
  - Run this command to check your device is connected or not with proper access
```
adb devices
```
  Allow usb debugging authorization prompt on android The output will look like this
  
  N.B: If you encounter an 'unauthorized' message after seeing your device number, follow the steps below. Ensure you perform these commands. Allow usb debugging authorization on your Android device when prompted also check Always allow from this computer checkbox. Select 'File Transfer' in USB mode.
```
adb kill-server
```
```
adb start-server
```
```
adb devices
```
```
adb reboot bootloader
```
```
adb reboot bootloader
```
```
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
```
```
fastboot boot recovery.img
```
Install Magisk
- Download Magisk version 24 or up apk in your desktop (Link)
- Copy apk file into your pen-drive or SD card
- Connect your pen-drive or insert SD card
- Reboot your recovery once
- Flash your Magisk.apk
- Reboot your device
- Open Magisk Manager from app menu
- Follow on screen instruction to compleat the magisk setup

Mobile Security Framework (MobSF)

MobSF's Docker installation does not currently support dynamic analysis. If you only require static analysis, the Docker installation is straightforward. However, for dynamic analysis, it is recommended to install MobSF on a physical device.
In case of Windows installation MobSF requires some additional external dependencies. Please make your installation choice accordingly.

MobSF Installation on Docker

Pre-requirement:

let's assume your docker engine up and running let's continue with MobSF installation

Install MobSF:

docker pull opensecurity/mobile-security-framework-mobsf

Run MobSF:

docker run -it --rm --name mobsf -p 8000:8000 opensecurity/mobile-security-framework-mobsf

MobSF Installation on Physical Machine

Pre-requirement:

let's assume you have installed Python/Python3 let's continue with MobSF installation on your desktop

Install MobSF (linux):

Download latest release of MobSF from Mobile-Security-Framework-MobSF Github repository (Link)
Extract the zip file and rename the extracted folder to MobSF and place the folder to your suitable location
Open terminal inside the MobSF folder

# Give executable permission to setup.sh and run.sh file chmod +x ./setup.sh && chmod +x ./run.sh # run setup.sh sudo ./setup.sh

Run MobSF (linux):

# run MobSF ./run.sh

Install MobSF (Windows):

Download and install .NET Framework 4.6 (or Latest)(Link)

Download Visual Studio Community Edition (Link)

Double click and run the Visual Studio installer
Select Visual C++ Build Tools
On right panel uncheck optionals (as it takes more space and its not required in this case)
Click on install at bottom right

# run setup.bat setup.bat

Run MobSF (Windows):

# run MobSF run.bat

Congratulation your MobSF is installed and running navigate to localhost:8000 using your preferred web browser.

Drozer (on desktop)

Pre-requirement:

let's assume your docker engine up and running let's continue with Drozer installation on your desktop

Install Drozer:

docker pull fsecurelabs/drozer

Run Drozer:

docker run -it --rm --name drozer fsecurelabs/drozer

Congratulation your Drozer is installed on your desktop now we need to install Drozer Agent Apk agent-debug.apk

APKLeaks

Pre-requirement:

let's assume your docker engine up and running let's continue with APKLeaks installation

Install APKLeaks:

docker pull dwisiswant0/apkleaks:latest

Run APKLeaks:

docker run -it --rm -v /tmp:/tmp dwisiswant0/apkleaks:latest -f /tmp/file.apk

Apktool

Pre-requirement:

let's assume you have installed Java JDK let's continue with Apktool installation on your desktop

Install Apktool (linux):

# Clone apktool script wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/iBotPeaches/Apktool/master/scripts/linux/apktool -O apktool # Give executable permission to apktool script chmod +x apktool && cp apktool /usr/local/bin/apktool

Check latest release of apktool from their Bitbucket repository (Link)

# Clone latest version of apktool wget https://bitbucket.org/iBotPeaches/apktool/downloads/apktool_2.9.1.jar -O apktool.jar # Give executable permission to apktool and move to bin file chmod +x apktool.jar && cp apktool.jar /usr/local/bin/apktool.jar

Install Apktool (Windows):

Open the link on your browser right click and save the file as 'apktool.bat' (Link)
Download latest version of apktool (Link)
Move both apktool.jar and apktool.bat to your Windows directory. (Usually C://Windows)

Run Apktool:

apktool

APKToolGUI

Pre-requirement:

let's assume you have installed Java JDK let's continue with APKToolGUI installation on your desktop

Install APKToolGUI (Windows):

Download latest release of APKToolGUI from APKToolGUI Github repository (Link)
Extract the zip file and rename the extracted folder to APKToolGUI

Run APKToolGUI (Windows):

Double click APKToolGUI.exe inside extracted APKToolGUI folder

N.B: Please note that APKToolGUI is currently only available for Windows OS.

JADX

Pre-requirement:

let's assume you have installed Java JDK let's continue with JADX installation on your desktop

Install JADX (linux):

Download latest release of JADX from JADX Github repository (Link)
Extract the zip file and rename the extracted folder to JADX

cd ./JADX/bin # Give executable permission to jadx and jadx-gui script chmod +x jadx && chmod +x jadx-gui

Run JADX (linux):

# run jadx cli ./jadx # run jadx gui ./jadx-gui

Install JADX (Windows):

Download latest release of JADX from JADX Github repository (Link)
Extract the zip file and rename the extracted folder to JADX

Run JADX (Windows):

Navigate to bin folder inside the JADX folder
Double click jdax.bat to run jadx cli
Double click jdax-gui.bat to run jadx gui

JD-GUI

Pre-requirement:

let's assume you have installed Java JDK let's continue with JD-GUI installation on your desktop

Install JD-GUI (linux):

Download latest release of jd-gui-x.x.x.deb from java-decompiler/jd-gui Github repository (Link)

# Give executable permission to jd-gui-x.x.x.deb file chmod +x ./jd-gui-x.x.x.deb # Install jd-gui sudo apt install ./jd-gui-x.x.x.deb

Run JD-GUI (linux):

# Run jd-gui jd-gui

Install JD-GUI (Windows):

Download latest release of jd-gui-windows-x.x.x.deb from java-decompiler/jd-gui Github repository (Link)
Extract the zip file and rename the extracted folder to jd-gui

Run JD-GUI (Windows):

Double click jd-gui.exe to run jd-gui

Dex2Jar

Pre-requirement:

let's assume you have installed Java JDK let's continue with Dex2Jar installation on your desktop

Install Dex2Jar (linux):

sudo apt install -y dex2jar

Install Dex2Jar (Windows):

Download latest release of Dex2Jar from pxb1988/dex2jar Github repository (Link)
Extract the zip file and rename the extracted folder to dex2jar

Objection

Pre-requirement:

let's assume Python/Python3 is installed let's continue with objection installation on your desktop

Install Objection (Linux):

pip3 install objection

Install Objection (Windows):

pip install objection

Burp Suite

Pre-requirement:

let's assume you have installed Java JDK let's continue with Burp Suite installation on your desktop

Go to the Burp Suite official website, pick either Burp Suite Professional or Burp Suite Community, and download the JAR file(Link)

Run Burp Suite:

java "--add-opens=java.desktop/javax.swing=ALL-UNNAMED" "--add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED" "--add-opens=java.base/jdk.internal.org.objectweb.asm=ALL-UNNAMED" "--add-opens=java.base/jdk.internal.org.objectweb.asm.tree=ALL-UNNAMED" "--add-opens=java.base/jdk.internal.org.objectweb.asm.Opcodes=ALL-UNNAMED" "-noverify" "-jar" .\burpsuite.jar

Postman

Go to the Postman official website, and download the tar.gz file for linux & the exe for the windows (Link)

Install Postman (Linux):

# Install dependencies sudo apt-get -y install libgconf-2-4 openssl # Extract the archive tar zxf /path/to/downloaded/archive/Postman-linux-xXX-X.XX.X.tar.gz # Move postman to apps sudo mv Postman /opt/apps/ # Create shortcut sudo ln -s /opt/apps/Postman/Postman /usr/local/bin/postman

Run Postman (Linux):

postman

Install & Run Postman (Windows):

Double click downloaded installer

Radare2

Install Radare2 (Linux):

sudo apt-get -y install radare2

Install Radare2 (Windows):

Download radare2-x.x.x-wxx.zip from official release (Link)
Extract the zip in your preferred location

Run Radare2 (Linux):

radare2 -h

Run Radare2 (Windows):

.\radare2\bin\r2.bat

Nuclei

Pre-requirement:

let's assume your docker engine up and running let's continue with Nuclei installation

Install Nuclei:

docker pull projectdiscovery/nuclei:latest

Run Nuclei:

nuclei -h

Zipalign

Install Zipalign (Linux):

sudo apt-get -y install zipalign

Run Zipalign (Linux):

zipalign

Install Zipalign (Windows):

Download Android SDK Build-Tools latest release for window (Link)
Extract the zip in your preferred location

Run Zipalign (Windows):

Navigate to extracted zip file location

zipalign.exe

DB Browser for SQLite

Install DB Browser on Debian based linux distros:

sudo apt-get install sqlitebrowser

Install DB Browser on Ubuntu and Ubuntu based linux distros:

# Add PPA to repo list sudo add-apt-repository -y ppa:linuxgndu/sqlitebrowser # Update the repo list sudo apt-get update # Install sqlitebrowser sudo apt-get install sqlitebrowser

Install DB Browser on Windows:

Download windows installer (Link)
Double click the Executable installer and install DB Browser

Run DB Browser (Linux):

sqlitebrowser

Frida Tools

Pre-requirement:

let's assume Python/Python3 is installed let's continue with Frida Tools installation on your desktop

Install Frida Tools (Linux):

pip3 install frida pip3 install frida-tools

Install Frida Tools (Windows):

pip install frida pip install frida-tools

Frida Server (Magisk-Frida)

Pre-requirement:

let's assume Magisk is installed on your Android device let's continue with Frida Server installation

Download MagiskFrida Latest version zip (Link)
Place the zip on your Android
Open your Magisk Manager App, go to module section, Click on 'Install from storage'
Select the downloaded zip
Reboot the device Refer to Picture

Always Trust User Certs & Burp-cert Magisk Modules

Pre-requirement:

let's assume Magisk is installed on your Android device let's continue with Always Trust User Certs & Burp-cert Magisk Modules installation

Download Always Trust User Certs Magisk Module zip (Link)
Download Burp-cert Magisk Module zip (Link)
Place the zip on your Android
Open your Magisk Manager App, go to module section, Click on 'Install from storage'
Select the downloaded zip one by one
Reboot the device Refer to Picture

Fridump

Pre-requirement:

Python/Python3 (Link)
Frida (Link)
Frida Server (Link)

let's assume Python/Python3, Frida is installed on your desktop and Frida Server is installed on your android device let's continue with Fridump installation

Install Fridump (Linux):

git clone https://github.com/Nightbringer21/fridump.git

Run Fridump (Linux):

Open terminal and navigate to fridump folder

python3 fridump.py -h

Install Fridump (Windows):

Download the Fridump zip (Link)
Rename the filename fridump-master.zip to fridump.zip
Extract the fridump.zip

Run Fridump (Windows):

Open powershell and navigate to fridump folder

python fridump.py -h

Useful Commands & Tools Usage

ADB Commands

Start the adb server:

adb start-server

Stop the adb server:

adb kill-server

List attached adb devices:

adb devices

Reboot the device using adb:

adb reboot

Backup device using adb:

# Basic backup of the device adb backup -f some_file_name>.ab # Take backup of a specific app adb backup -nosystem -noapk -noshared -f some_file_name>.ab package_name_of_the_apk> # For a full device backup, including certain apps, system data, and files adb backup -apk -obb -shared -all -system -f some_file_name>.ab # e.g.: # adb backup -f testbackup.ab # adb backup -nosystem -noapk -noshared -f diva_backup.ab jakhar.aseem.diva # adb backup -apk -obb -shared -all -system -f testbackup_full.ab # Other Options # -f specify filename default: creates backup.ab in the current directory # -apk|noapk enable/disable backup of .apks themself default: -noapk # -obb|noobb enable/disable backup of additional files default: -noobb # -shared|noshared backup device's shared storage / SD card contents default: -noshared # -all backup all installed applications # -system|nosystem include system applications default: -system # a list of packages to be backed up (e.g. jakhar.aseem.diva) (not needed if -all is specified)

Restore device backup using adb:

adb restore some_file_name>.ab # e.g.: # adb restore testbackup_full.ab

Keep in mind that, restoring sensitive information or user logged-in sessions after restoring a backup taken via ADB could be considered a potential vulnerability.

Use adb over tcp:

# Use this command when you already connected to a device using USB adb tcpip desired_port_number> # Disconnect the USB and run adb connect android_device_ip>:desired_port_number> # e.g.: # adb tcpip 5555 # adb connect 192.168.50.23:5555

Entering android shell as user:

adb shell

Entering android shell as root:

adb shell su

List android packages:

# List all installed packages adb shell pm list packages # List only user installed packages: adb shell pm list packages -3 | cut -f 2 -d ":" # Other options: # -f: see their associated file # -d: filter to only show disabled packages # -e: filter to only show enabled packages # -s: filter to only show system packages # -3: filter to only show third party packages # -i: see the installer for the packages # -U: also show the package UID

Find an android package:

# Lists packages containing the specified keyword adb shell pm list packages 'keyword' | cut -d ':' -f2 # e.g.: # adb shell pm list packages 'diva' | cut -d ':' -f2

Get Process ID (pid) of Apps:

# List all running apps pid: adb shell ps # List a particular app pid: adb shell ps | package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # adb shell ps | jakhar.aseem.diva

Install an apk using adb:

adb install name_of_apk_file> # Install the apk to removable storage (-s) adb install -s name_of_apk_file> # e.g.: # adb install diva.apk # adb install -s diva.apk

Launch an apk using adb:

# Method 1: Launch using Monkey tool adb shell monkey -p package_name_of_the_apk> -c 1 # Method 2: Launch using dumpsys tool adb shell dumpsys package package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # adb shell monkey -p jakhar.aseem.diva -c 1 # adb shell dumpsys package jakhar.aseem.diva

N.B:
Monkey tool method means pretending to be a user and starting the app by clicking on its icon.
Monkey tool method will only worked when Main activity is exported in the AndroidManifest.xml.

Launch an apk activity directly using adb:

adb shell am start -n package_name_of_the_apk>/.activity_name> # e.g.: # adb shell am start -n jakhar.aseem.diva/.MainActivity

Uninstall an apk using adb:

adb uninstall package_name_of_the_apk> # Keep data and cache directories of the apk (-k) adb uninstall -k package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # adb uninstall jakhar.aseem.diva # adb uninstall -k jakhar.aseem.diva

Copy/Push a File/Directory to an Android device using ADB:

# Copy a file to android device adb push file_path_and_name> location_on_device> # Copy a directory to android device adb push directory_path_and_name> location_on_device> # e.g.: # adb push Demo.txt /storage/emulated/0/ # adb push DemoFolder /storage/emulated/0/

Get/Pull a File/Directory from an Android device using ADB:

# Get a file from android device adb pull file_path_and_name> location_on_computer> # Get a directory to android device adb pull directory_path_and_name> location_on_computer> # e.g.: # adb pull /storage/emulated/0/Demo.txt ./ # adb pull /storage/emulated/0/DemoFolder ./

Bypassing permission denied issue while Get/Pull a File from an Android device using ADB:

# Solution 1: adb shell su -c 'cat ' > location_on_computer> # Solution 2: Useful when to check, SharedPreferences is accessible as non-root (low-privileged) user or not adb exec-out run-as package_name_of_the_apk> cat /data/user/0/package_name_of_the_apk>/shared_prefs/file_name> > location_on_computer> # Solution 3: Useful when you need to access a apps internal files or a file that owned by the particular app (root required) adb shell su -c 'run-as cat ' > location_on_computer> # e.g.: # adb shell su -c 'cat /data/user/0/jakhar.aseem.diva/files/Test.txt' > Test.txt # adb exec-out run-as jakhar.aseem.diva cat /data/user/0/jakhar.aseem.diva/shared_prefs/settings.xml > settings.xml # adb shell su -c 'run-as jakhar.aseem.diva cat /data/user/0/jakhar.aseem.diva/files/Test.txt' > Test.txt

run-as is a command that facilitates the execution of other commands with the permissions of a specific app on an Android device. This is essential for accessing app-specific data and resources that are normally restricted.

Syntax: adb shell run-as
Example: adb shell run-as com.example.myapp cat /data/data/com.example.myapp/databases/mydatabase.db

Bypassing permission denied issue while Get/Pull a Directory from an Android device using ADB:

# Get a Directory from android device dir=""; IFS=$'\n'; for subdir in $(adb shell su -c "find \"$ \" -type d"); do mkdir -p ".$ "; done; for file in $(adb shell su -c "find \"$ \" -type f"); do adb shell su -c "cat \"$// /\\\ >\"" > ".$ "; done; # e.g.: # dir="somedir"; IFS=$'\n'; for subdir in $(adb shell su -c "find \"$\" -type d"); do mkdir -p ".$"; done; for file in $(adb shell su -c "find \"$\" -type f"); do adb shell su -c "cat \"$\"" > ".$"; done;

Breakdown of the command: (Click to expand)

Set Directory: dir="" assigns user provided value to the variable dir .

Set Separator: IFS=$'\n' sets the Internal Field Separator (IFS) to a newline for proper handling of filenames.

Create Directories: For subdir in $(adb shell su -c "find \"$\" -type d") Iterates over subdirectories found by find on the Android device, creating corresponding directories (with dot prefix) in the current directory.

Copy Files: For file in $(adb shell su -c "find \"$\" -type f") Iterates over files found by find, reads their contents using cat, and writes them to files with dot prefixes in the current directory.

Keep in mind that, when using ADB, empty directories will not be copied from or to an Android device.

Frida Commands

List android packages using Frida:

# List all packages with PID, Names & Identifiers frida-ps -Uai # List PID, Name, Identifiers that match the input string frida-ps -Uai | grep -i '' # e.g.: # frida-ps -Uai | grep -i 'diva'

-D : Use this flag Connect Frida to the specific device (the device identifier you gate by running adb devices command)

Syntax: frida-ps -D
Example: frida-ps -Uai -D 27d1d6d3a03 | grep -i 'diva'

Discover an app internal methods/calls using frida:

# Discover internal methods/calls of an app and save the output in a file frida-discover -U -f package_name_of_the_apk> | tee file_path_and_name> # e.g.: # frida-discover -U -f jakhar.aseem.diva | tee frida_discover.txt

N.B: Here tee command part is optional, I recommended this for display and also save the output in a file which may required letter.

Trace an app internal methods/calls using frida:

# Trace all internal methods/calls of an app frida-trace -p pid_of_an_app> # Trace specific(s) internal methods/calls of an app frida-trace -p pid_of_an_app> -i '*' # e.g.: # frida-trace -p 852 # frida-trace -p 852 -i 'log*'

You can use -i flag multiple times as per your needs.
For example: frida-trace -p 852 -i 'log*' -i 'recv*' -i 'send*'

For more frida-trace commands please read the official documentation.

Run Frida Scripts:

frida --no-pause --codeshare dzonerzy/fridantiroot -f package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # frida --no-pause --codeshare dzonerzy/fridantiroot -f jakhar.aseem.diva

frida --no-pause --codeshare pcipolloni/universal-android-ssl-pinning-bypass-with-frida --no-pause -f package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # frida --no-pause --codeshare pcipolloni/universal-android-ssl-pinning-bypass-with-frida --no-pause -f jakhar.aseem.diva

Download the emulator_detection_bypass.js script (Link)

frida --no-pause -l emulator_detection_bypass.js -f package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # frida --no-pause -l emulator_detection_bypass.js -f jakhar.aseem.diva

frida --no-pause --codeshare dzonerzy/fridantiroot --codeshare pcipolloni/universal-android-ssl-pinning-bypass-with-frida --no-pause -l emulator_detection_bypass.js -f package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # frida --no-pause --codeshare dzonerzy/fridantiroot --codeshare pcipolloni/universal-android-ssl-pinning-bypass-with-frida --no-pause -l emulator_detection_bypass.js -f jakhar.aseem.diva

N.B: Frida automatically paused the target app when attaching. Using
--no-pause to prevent this, allowing the app to start normally while Frida injected the scripts.

For more Frida commands please read the official documentation.

For more Frida please visit Codeshare.

Objection Commands

Connect an app to Objection:

objection --gadget package_name_of_the_apk> explore # e.g.: # objection --gadget jakhar.aseem.diva explore

Connect an app to Objection and load Frida script:

import some_frida_script_file> objection --gadget package_name_of_the_apk> explore --startup-script some_frida_script_file> # e.g.: # import emulator_detection_bypass.js # objection --gadget jakhar.aseem.diva explore --startup-script emulator_detection_bypass.js

Re-attach to an app, if in case Objection detaches from the app:

# Get the pid by using `frida-ps -Uai` command objection --gadget pid_of_app> explore # e.g.: # objection --gadget 7814 explore

Extract useful information from an app using Objection:

# Some interesting information like passwords, paths could be find inside the environment. env

Bypass SSL Pinning [?] using Objection:

# Method 1: Run after connect an app to Objection android sslpinning disable --quiet # Method 2: Connect an app to Objection with SSL pinning disabled objection --gadget package_name_of_the_apk> explore --startup-command 'android sslpinning disable --quiet' #e.g.: # objection --gadget jakhar.aseem.diva explore --startup-command 'android sslpinning disable --quiet'

Bypass Root detection using Objection:

# Method 1: Run after connect an app to Objection android root disable --quiet # Method 2: Connect an app to Objection with Root detection disabled objection --gadget package_name_of_the_apk> explore --startup-command 'android root disable --quiet' #e.g.: # objection --gadget jakhar.aseem.diva explore --startup-command 'android root disable --quiet'

List KeyStore [?] using Objection:

android keystore list

List Memory modules using Objection:

List activities, receivers and services using Objection:

# List activities android hooking list activities package_name_of_the_apk> # List services android hooking list services package_name_of_the_apk> # List receivers android hooking list receivers package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # android hooking list activities jakhar.aseem.diva # android hooking list services jakhar.aseem.diva # android hooking list receivers jakhar.aseem.diva

Get current activity name using Objection:

android hooking get current_activity

# List all memory modules memory list modules # Grab particular module memory list modules | grep '' # e.g.: # memory list modules | grep 'diva'

Take Memory Dump [?] using Objection:

# Dump all memory memory dump all '' # Dump a part of memory memory dump from_base base_address> size_to_dump> '' # e.g.: # memory dump all 'all_memory.dmp' #memory dump from_base 0x77bbc000 4096 'all_memory.dmp'

Search inside Memory using Objection:

memory search '' --string # e.g.: # memory search 'api' --string

Base address can be obtain by running memory list modules command.

The size_to_dump is the amount of memory to extract, in bytes (e.g., 4096 for 4 KB).

Monitor user clipboard using Objection:

android clipboard monitor

List classes that were loaded inside the current application:

android hooking list classes

Search classes inside the current application:

android hooking search classes '' # e.g.: # android hooking search classes 'jakhar.aseem.diva'

List declared Methods of a class with their parameters in the current application:

android hooking list class_methods package_name_of_the_apk>.activity_or_class_name> # e.g.: # android hooking list class_methods jakhar.aseem.diva.MainActivity

List methods inside classes:

methods inside the class package_name_of_the_apk> activity_or_class_name> # e.g.: # android hooking search classes jakhar.aseem.diva MainActivity

Hooking (watching) a method:

# Read source code in static analysis face to aware about function names android hooking watch class_method package_name_of_the_apk>.activity_or_class_name>.function_or_method_name> --dump-args --dump-backtrace --dump-return # e.g.: # android hooking watch class_method jakhar.aseem.diva.MainActivity.xyz --dump-args --dump-backtrace --dump-return

Hooking (watching) an entire class:

android hooking watch class package_name_of_the_apk>.activity_or_class_name> --dump-args --dump-return # e.g.: # android hooking watch class jakhar.aseem.diva.MainActivity --dump-args --dump-args --dump-return

Alter boolean return value of a function:

# From the source code you can determine which function returns a boolean, and make the function always return true or false: android hooking set return_value package_name_of_the_apk>.activity_or_class_name>.function_or_method_name> bool> # e.g.: # android hooking set return_value jakhar.aseem.diva.MainActivity.xyz false

List instances of a specific Java class inside current app using Objection:

android heap print_instances class_name> # e.g.: # android heap print_instances MainActivity

Screenshots protection bypass in current app using Objection:

# Enable screenshot with hardware key android ui FLAG_SECURE false

Connect/execute/sync/disconnect SQLite command with current app database(s) using Objection:

# First identify current app database(s) location, then go to the location and connect to the database: sqlite connect sqlite_database_location_and_file_name> # Check the status of the SQLite connection sqlite status # Get the database schema for the currently connected SQLite database sqlite execute schema # Execute sql query sqlite execute query sql query> # Sync the locally cached SQLite database with remote database sqlite sync # Disconnect from the currently connected SQLite database file sqlite disconnect # e.g.: # sqlite connect credentials.db # sqlite execute query select * from data

The sqlite command utility in Objection allows you to connect to a SQLite database. On connecting to a remote device database Objection copy the remote database file to a local temporary directory. When a user executes any SQL query, it is initially performed on the cached database file locally. If the user employs the sqlite sync command, the file is then validated. Once the local cached SQLite database is validated, it is synchronized with the remote database.

Drozer Commands

Connect to Drozer:

Download Drozer Agent Apk agent-debug.apk
Install the apk to device

# Install drozer apk using ADB adb install agent-debug.apk

adb shell monkey -p com.mwr.dz -c 1

adb forward tcp:31415 tcp:31415

drozer console connect --server desktop_ip> # e.g.: drozer console connect --server 192.168.100.5

Find an android package:

# Lists all packages using Drozer run app.package.list # Lists packages containing the specified keyword using Drozer run app.package.list -f adb shell pm list packages 'keyword' # e.g.: # run app.package.list -f adb shell pm list packages 'diva'

List basic information about an android package:

run app.package.info -a package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run app.package.info -a jakhar.aseem.diva

Show AndroidManifest.xml of an android package:

run app.package.manifest package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run app.package.manifest jakhar.aseem.diva

Show Attack surface (common weakness) of an android package:

run app.package.attacksurface package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run app.package.attacksurface jakhar.aseem.diva

Lists packages which the Backup flag is enabled:

run app.package.backup

Lists packages which the Debuggable flag is enabled:

run app.package.debuggable

List activities and intent filters of an android package using Drozer:

# List activities run app.activity.info -a package_name_of_the_apk> # List intent filters run app.activity.info -i package_name_of_the_apk> # List booth run app.activity.info -i -a package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run app.activity.info -a jakhar.aseem.diva # run app.activity.info -i jakhar.aseem.diva # run app.activity.info -i -a jakhar.aseem.diva

Launch an activity of an android package using Drozer:

# List activities run app.activity.start --component package_name_of_the_apk> activity_name> # e.g.: # run app.activity.start --component jakhar.aseem.diva jakhar.aseem.diva.MainActivity

List exported and unexported content providers of an android package using Drozer:

# List exported content providers run app.provider.info -a package_name_of_the_apk> # List unexported content providers run app.provider.info -u -a package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run app.provider.info -a jakhar.aseem.diva # run app.provider.info -u -a jakhar.aseem.diva

Investigate Android package content providers for potential vulnerabilities using Drozer:

run scanner.provider.finduris package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run scanner.provider.finduris jakhar.aseem.diva

Investigate Android package content providers for potential SQL Injections vulnerabilities using Drozer:

run scanner.provider.injection package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run scanner.provider.injection jakhar.aseem.diva

Find tables accessible through SQL injection in a Android package using Drozer:

run scanner.provider.sqltables package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run scanner.provider.sqltables jakhar.aseem.diva

Investigate Android package content providers for basic directory traversal vulnerabilities using Drozer:

run scanner.provider.traversal package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run scanner.provider.traversal jakhar.aseem.diva

Investigate Android package for browsable activities that can be invoked from the web browser using Drozer:

run scanner.activity.browsable package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run scanner.activity.browsable jakhar.aseem.diva

Investigate Android package native components for potential vulnerabilities using Drozer:

run scanner.misc.native package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run scanner.misc.native jakhar.aseem.diva

Investigate Android package for secret codes that can be used from the dialer using Drozer:

run scanner.misc.secretcodes package_name_of_the_apk> # e.g.: # run scanner.misc.secretcodes jakhar.aseem.diva

Terminology's

SSL Pinning

SSL (Secure socket layer) pinning in Android is a security measure where a mobile app validates a server's SSL certificate against a pre-defined certificate or public key embedded within the app. This helps prevent man-in-the-middle attacks by ensuring a secure and trusted connection.

KeyStore

In Android, a keystore is a secure storage system used to store and manage cryptographic keys and certificates. It provides a secure environment for tasks like SSL/TLS pinning, app authentication, and data encryption, enhancing the overall security of Android applications.

Memory Dump

In Android, a memory dump is a snapshot of the device's current system memory. It captures the contents of RAM, including running processes and their data. Check memory dump for any sensitive information stored in memory.

Important Links

https://book.hacktricks.xyz/mobile-pentesting/android-checklist
learnfrida.info
codeshare.frida.re
https://github.com/dweinstein/awesome-frida
https://github.com/interference-security/frida-scripts
https://github.com/m0bilesecurity/Frida-Mobile-Scripts
https://github.com/WithSecureLabs/android-keystore-audit
https://owasp.org/www-project-mobile-security-testing-guide/
https://github.com/B3nac/Android-Reports-and-Resources
https://github.com/wtsxDev/android-security-list
https://mobile-security.gitbook.io/mobile-security-testing-guide/
https://github.com/ashishb/android-security-awesome
https://androidsdkoffline.blogspot.com/p/android-sdk-build-tools.html

Intentionally Vulnerable Applications For Practice

Damn Insecure and vulnerable App for Android (DIVA) (Link)
InsecureBankv2 (Link)
VyAPI (Link) Hybrid (Cloud + Android)
Damn Vulnerable Hybrid Mobile App (DVHMA) (Link)
What a Terrible Failure (WaTF Bank) (Link)
Vuldroid (Link)
Oversecured Vulnerable Android App (OVAA) (Link) Raw Code(Gradle)

I tried my best to enrich this checklist. Please feel free to share your key findings and knowledge. Thank you🙏

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Android App Pentesting Checklist

Table of Content

Android Applications Penetration Testing Checklist (v1.1)

Important Tools

Tools Installation/Setup

Prerequisites

Hardware requirements

Software/Tools prerequisites

1. Java (Jdk) (Link)

2. Python/Python3 (Link)

3. Genymotion (Link)

4. Docker (Link)

5. Android Debug Bridge (adb) (Link)

6. Magisk (Link)

Mobile Security Framework (MobSF)

MobSF Installation on Docker

MobSF Installation on Physical Machine

Drozer (on desktop)

APKLeaks

Apktool

APKToolGUI

JADX

JD-GUI

Dex2Jar

Objection

Burp Suite

Postman

Radare2

Nuclei

Zipalign

DB Browser for SQLite

Frida Tools

Frida Server (Magisk-Frida)

Always Trust User Certs & Burp-cert Magisk Modules

Fridump

Useful Commands & Tools Usage

ADB Commands

Frida Commands

Objection Commands

Drozer Commands

Terminology's

SSL Pinning

KeyStore

Memory Dump

Important Links

Intentionally Vulnerable Applications For Practice

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