DHS Project Finds Security Vulnerabilities in First Responder Apps

DHS Project Finds Security Vulnerabilities in First Responder Apps

The DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate “Securing Mobile Applications for First Responders” report said that security flaws were discovered on 32 of the 33 popular apps tested.

  • By Jessica Davis
  • Dec 20, 2017

A pilot project launched by the Department of Homeland Security has discovered critical flaws in 18 mobile apps used by public safety officials to respond to emergencies. The DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate “Securing Mobile Applications for First Responders” report said that security flaws were discovered on 32 of the 33 popular apps tested.

The department established the program in partnership with the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials and mobile app vetting company Kryptowire to test the cyberattacj vulnerability of apps used in the public safety sector. The Mobile Application Security project aims for continuous validation and threat protection for mobile apps and the security integration throughout the lifecycle of these apps.

For their study, participants selected 33 popular iOS and Android apps and tested each app’s security, privacy, and information and device access. Potential security and privacy concerns, such as access to the device camera, contacts or SMS messages, were discovered in 32 of the 33 apps, DHS said. “Critical flaws” were found in 18 of the apps.

Pilot project leaders worked with each app developer to fix the identified vulnerabilities in 14 mobile apps. According to DHS, most developers reported spending about one hour remedying their app’s vulnerabilities, with solutions including the removal of old or unused code, the enabling of built-in security provided by the operating system, and confirmation that the functionality requested is necessary for operations.

Project leaders stressed the usefulness of an ongoing app-testing program for the public safety community and the public at large.

“As more apps are adopted for public-safety missions, it is critical that a formal, ongoing app-evaluation process with incentives for developer participation be adopted to ensure current and new mobile apps are free of vulnerabilities,” said John Merrill, Director of the S&T FRG Next Generation First Responder Apex program.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

  • From the Most Visible to the Less Apparent

    The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) states “There are 16 critical infrastructure sectors whose assets, systems, and networks, whether physical or virtual, are considered so vital to the United States that their incapacitation or destruction would have a debilitating effect on security, national economic security, and national public health or safety or any combination thereof.” Read Now

  • Work Anywhere, Secure Everywhere: 2025 Tech Predictions

    Five years after the pandemic, organizations need a flexible work reset to stay productive and support any work arrangement. Despite the pandemic-fueled workplace shift that began five years ago, companies across industries and geographies continue to increase flexible work configurations. However, many tools adopted during COVID onset remain in place today, and they now need a reset to keep employees productive and secure regardless of location. Security leaders must re-evaluate existing practices and reinvest in zero trust security, passwordless environments, and automation adoption to improve efficiency and productivity. Read Now

  • Guiding Principles

    Construction sites represent a unique sector of perimeter security, especially amidst a steady increase in commercial construction. As in any security environment, assessing weaknesses and threats remains paramount and modern technology, coupled with sound access control principles, are critical in addressing vulnerabilities at even the most secure construction sites around the world. Read Now

  • Empowering 911

    In the wake of the tragic murder of UnitedHealth Group CEO Brian Thompson, media coverage flooded the airwaves with images, videos and detailed timelines of the suspect’s movements. While such post-incident analysis is not new, today’s 911 centers now have access to similar data in real-time. This technological evolution marks a pivotal transformation in emergency response, transitioning from analog calls to a digital ecosystem capable of saving more lives. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    The latest Qualcomm® Vision Intelligence Platform offers next-generation smart camera IoT solutions to improve safety and security across enterprises, cities and spaces. The Vision Intelligence Platform was expanded in March 2022 with the introduction of the QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC), which delivers superior artificial intelligence (AI) inferencing at the edge.

  • ComNet CNGE6FX2TX4PoE

    The ComNet cost-efficient CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is a six-port switch that offers four Gbps TX ports that support the IEEE802.3at standard and provide up to 30 watts of PoE to PDs. It also has a dedicated FX/TX combination port as well as a single FX SFP to act as an additional port or an uplink port, giving the user additional options in managing network traffic. The CNGE6FX2TX4PoE is designed for use in unconditioned environments and typically used in perimeter surveillance.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.