Mobile devices are used for everything from listening to music, watching shows and movies, and tracking health and fitness to placing bets and managing finances. Most people will spend several hours a day on mobile devices, making app security an essential development.
Regardless of the sector apps find themselves in, consumers must know that they are safe to use them. Signing up for any service will require the user to trust the operator with personal information which will sometimes include payment details. Operators who fail to protect this information will lose the trust of the consumer and suffer reputational damage.
Mobile Security Trends for 2024
Cybercriminals are constantly adapting and using sophisticated techniques to access sensitive information. Because of this, website and app developers and operators must also adapt and make use of developing technology to offer users the safest online experience possible.
Many industries require strong protection for customers, especially financial and betting industries. Casino content editor Lindsey Jones explains that one of the top priorities for consumers when searching for online casinos is the security provided by operators.
Depending on the country or jurisdiction that consumers find themselves in, online betting markets can be prohibited or limited. Offshore or locally licensed betting apps provide ways for players to access different markets, but with such a wide choice of operators, it can be challenging to find secure options.
Checking that individual sites are properly licensed for the jurisdiction they operate from should be checked alongside the security technology implemented on sites or apps, including how users authenticate themselves and whether the site uses SSL encryption to protect data transfers. (Source: https://readwrite.com/gambling/casino/australia/pokies/)
Take a look below for some security trends we are likely to see implemented in the casino industry and others throughout 2024.
Machine Learning Security Features
Machine learning can be used in security to analyze and predict potential threats. Algorithms can be trained by using labelled datasets to define variables and assess correlations. By defining the input and output, operators will have a greater understanding of which sites to avoid.
Multi-Factor Authentication
While consumers look for quick and easy access to sites and apps the use of multi-factor authentication minimises the risk of accounts being hijacked or cyber criminals accessing sensitive data.
Strong passwords are required on most sites now, and additional features such as entering a code that is sent to a mobile device or biometric authentication add additional layers of protection.
Biometric Authentication
The development of biometric authentication in mobile technology has helped consumers protect devices and account security by using face recognition and fingerprint technology.
Biometric authentication provides a level of security that is unique to the user, making it significantly more difficult for unauthorized users to access accounts.
Managed Security Service Provider
App development can be time-consuming and expensive and can be further complicated when implementing security features. Exploring third-party security providers can be beneficial.
A good MSSP (managed security service provider) will provide the experience and expertise that can save time and effort, while also ensuring the latest security techniques have been implemented.
A collaborative approach to app design with an MSSP will result in a security strategy that suits the app’s requirements and protects the user.
Mobile Banking Security Development
Mobile banking and payment providers offer a convenient service that facilitates all manner of financial transactions online. Many banks are shifting towards providing state-of-the-art digital services as a way of reducing overheads and helping their customers.
The development of banking and payment service security is needed to ensure customers can enjoy the convenience of these services without fears over security.
2024 will see continuous developments in financial security techniques that incorporate many of the techniques mentioned in this list.
Artificial Intelligence
The use of AI in app development and use has been able to streamline processes and improve the user experience. AI technology can be used to analyze user behaviour to tailor the user session to the consumers’ needs.
AI is also being implemented as a security feature and analyses the actions taken by users to find patterns. A change in these patterns and behaviours will alert the system to a potential threat which can lead to the account being locked and the user being notified.
AI security is being used by online casinos to analyse and predict user behaviours and alert sites when these behaviours change.
This is a great way for sites to clamp down on fraudulent account activity and protect customer information.
Greater OWASP MAS Project Support
The OWASP MAS Project is an attempt to create a mobile app security standard and testing guide that ensures apps are tested to a certain standard. The purpose of this is to create a collective that collaborates and shares security techniques to protect users.
As more organizations contribute to the project, the shared knowledge will be used to provide valuable information and recommendations.
The Balance of UX and Security
The last trend we expect to see in 2024 is the balance of security measures with the user experience. In a perfect world, the best security systems and methods would have no impact on the user experience, but that is simply not true.
The more security steps that people have to pass, the longer it takes to access an account or complete an action. This can lead to frustration for the consumer and finding a balance that protects consumers without ruining their session will be a priority.
