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NowSecure Launches MARC: A Game Changer for Mobile Data Security

In an era where mobile applications play a crucial role in business and personal transactions, the risks associated with mobile data security cannot be overlooked. Recognizing this pressing issue, NowSecure, a leader in Mobile Application Risk Management (MARM), has introduced MARC (Mobile Application Risk Checker), a groundbreaking free tool designed to enhance awareness about mobile data security and privacy risks. As mobile applications increasingly handle sensitive information, the need for robust risk management strategies has never been greater.

What Is MARC?

MARC stands out as the first and only free public risk checker specifically tailored for mobile applications. This innovative tool offers actionable insights derived from thorough scans of thousands of mobile apps available on platforms such as the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Alan Snyder, CEO of NowSecure, emphasizes the importance of managing data security within mobile applications. He notes, “Mobile app data is as sensitive and critical as it gets, yet there is a glaring lack of attention paid to managing security risks within the app and by third parties.” With MARC, NowSecure aims to bridge this gap by providing IT security professionals with a comprehensive view of the risks inherent in mobile applications.

The Importance of Mobile Application Security

Mobile apps are often gateways to sensitive user data and critical business operations. However, organizations remain blind to many of the third-party components that developers incorporate into these apps. Recent research conducted by NowSecure highlights that these components can contain hidden data flows posing significant risks of theft, leakage, or loss of sensitive data. As breaches related to mobile apps continue to rise, along with a wave of new data privacy regulations, it has become clear that mobile application risk is fundamentally a data risk.

Key Features of MARC

MARC provides users with a public database that categorizes thousands of apps, enabling security teams to identify risks across five distinct vectors:
- Permissions: Users can assess what data the app is set up to access, thereby identifying potentially dangerous permissions that could allow unauthorized access to sensitive data.
- Sensitive Data Collection and Sharing: By examining what sensitive information the app collects, users can better manage exposure to potential breaches and compliance violations.
- Privacy Declarations: Users can evaluate whether the app adheres to its stated policies regarding user data. Often, these declarations are incomplete, making users unaware of how their data is managed and could lead to mishandling of sensitive information.
- Network Connections: This feature reveals where the app sends data, helping to prevent unauthorized external access that could expose sensitive business information.
- AI Use: As apps increasingly incorporate AI capabilities, MARC assesses how these features might handle sensitive data, ensuring users are aware of potential liabilities.

The Holistic Approach of MARC

While MARC delivers valuable insights, it does not label applications as high or low risk automatically. Users must use their judgment to evaluate risk based on the app’s criticality and the nature of the data involved. Importantly, MARC utilizes only publicly available resources for its assessments, ensuring the integrity and security of customer data is maintained.

Security is not a one-time effort; it requires continuous vigilance and assessment. The introduction of MARC signifies a significant step forward for organizations looking to safeguard their mobile ecosystems. NowSecure expresses commitment to providing resources and tools that empower businesses to innovate without compromising security.

For more detailed information on MARC and its findings, NowSecure’s blog offers deeper insights along with analysis on risk findings across various application properties.

Conclusion

In a landscape where the risk for data breaches and privacy violations is ever-increasing, tools like MARC are invaluable for IT and security teams. By equipping professionals with the means to assess and manage mobile application risks, NowSecure is not only raising awareness but is also enhancing the overall security posture of organizations worldwide. As mobile technology continues to evolve, the importance of robust risk management strategies cannot be overstated. MARC is indeed a game changer in the quest for safer mobile applications and user data protection.