Security Glossary

Jailbreak detection means identifying an iOS device that has been modified to remove operating system restrictions. Jailbroken devices bypass built-in security controls, increasing the risk of tampering, malware installation, and data compromise. Mobile applications use jailbreak detection techniques to identify system-level modifications, suspicious files, or unusual app behaviour. If a jailbroken device is found, the app can take action to protect itself by blocking access to sensitive features, limiting functionality, alerting the backend and preventing app execution. This is critical to fintech, healthcare, and enterprise applications handling sensitive user data.

A JSON Web Token (JWT) is a specific token that ensures the information transfer between a client and a server is secure. It is a URL-safe method for secure transmission of information between two parties: a client (a mobile app) and a server (a JSON object). The JSON token contains all the necessary information about the user. Every time there is information transfer between a client and a server, it checks all the information and makes sure the client is authorised. It helps in API security and single-sign-on (SSO) systems. JWTs are used in mobile apps to manage user sessions after successful login. This helps in preventing the repeated verification of credentials. Its structure contains a header, payload and signature. Its implementation should be proper, including secure signing algorithms, expiration policies, and token validation to prevent misuse or tampering in app communication.