Using low-code or no-code platforms to secure iOS and Android apps can be problematic for several reasons:
Security Limitations
Lack of Fine-Grained Control:
Low-code/no-code platforms often abstract away many technical details, which can limit the ability to implement robust, customized security measures[1]. This abstraction may prevent developers from addressing specific security vulnerabilities or implementing advanced security features that require deeper access to the underlying code.
Potential for Misconfigurations:
These platforms often rely on pre-built components and configurations. Without proper understanding of security best practices, users may inadvertently create misconfigurations that expose sensitive data or create vulnerabilities[2][3]. For example, the Microsoft Power Apps incident resulted in 38 million records being exposed due to a misconfiguration issue[2].
Dependency and Visibility Issues
Embedded Identities:
Low-code/no-code platforms often use embedded user accounts instead of dedicated application identities. This can lead to privilege abuse or escalation, as end-users may have control over access permissions that should be more tightly managed[3].
Limited Visibility:
Security teams may have reduced visibility into the application's inner workings, making it challenging to identify and address potential security issues[1]. This lack of transparency can hinder effective security monitoring and incident response.
Expertise and Control
Lack of Security Expertise:
Many users of low-code/no-code platforms, especially "citizen developers," may not have the necessary security training or expertise to build secure applications[3]. This can lead to the creation of apps with fundamental security flaws.
Reduced Control Over Third-Party Components:
These platforms often rely on marketplaces of pre-built components and connectors. Using these without proper vetting can introduce security risks, similar to downloading untrusted apps from an app store[3].
Scalability and Customization
Limited Scalability:
As applications grow more complex, the limitations of low-code/no-code platforms may become apparent, especially when it comes to implementing advanced security features or scaling security measures alongside the application[1].
Customization Challenges:
While these platforms offer quick development, they may struggle to accommodate highly specific or complex security requirements that are often necessary for enterprise-grade mobile applications[1].
Shared Responsibility Model
Misunderstanding of Security Responsibilities:
Organizations may mistakenly believe that all security aspects are handled by the platform vendor, when in reality, there's a shared responsibility model. This misconception can lead to critical security oversights[3].
While low-code/no-code platforms can be useful for rapid prototyping or simple applications, when it comes to securing iOS and Android apps, especially those handling sensitive data or requiring robust security measures, traditional development methods with security-focused coding practices are often more appropriate. These allow for greater control, customization, and implementation of advanced security features tailored to the specific needs of the application and its users.
Citations:
[1] https://www.alphasoftware.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-low-code/no-code-platforms-and-security
[2] https://www.goodfirms.co/blog/the-truth-about-low-code-and-no-code-platforms
[3] https://evalian.co.uk/security-risks-of-low-code-no-code-development-platforms/
[4] https://www.securityweek.com/the-security-and-productivity-implications-of-low-code-no-code-development/
[5] https://www.netsolutions.com/hub/low-code-no-code/platforms
[6] https://www.spaceotechnologies.com/blog/low-code-mobile-app-development-platforms/
[7] https://www.blaze.tech/post/no-code-the-complete-guide-blaze
[8] https://www.convertigo.com