Restrict application permissions to the minimum required for functionality
<manifest xmlns:android="http://schemas.android.com/apk/res/android"
package="com.example.app">
<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.READ_SMS" />
<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE" />
<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.RECORD_AUDIO" />
<application
android:allowBackup="true"
android:theme="@style/AppTheme">
<activity android:name=".MainActivity">
<intent-filter>
<action android:name="android.intent.action.MAIN" />
<category android:name="android.intent.category.LAUNCHER" />
</intent-filter>
</activity>
</application>
</manifest>
The following
AndroidManifest.xml
file defines excessive permissions that
are not required for the core functionality of the application.
-
READ_SMS
allows reading SMS messages, which is sensitive data.
- WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE
enables writing to external storage, which can
be exploited for data exfiltration.
- RECORD_AUDIO
allows capturing microphone input, which could be used for
eavesdropping.
If an attacker gains control over the app or exploits a vulnerability, these
excessive permissions could be abused to access private user data.
<manifest xmlns:android="http://schemas.android.com/apk/res/android"
package="com.example.app">
<!-- Only essential permissions should be included -->
<uses-permission android:name="android.permission.INTERNET" />
<application
android:allowBackup="true"
android:theme="@style/AppTheme">
<activity android:name=".MainActivity">
<intent-filter>
<action android:name="android.intent.action.MAIN" />
<category android:name="android.intent.category.LAUNCHER" />
</intent-filter>
</activity>
</application>
</manifest>
The secure code ensures that only the necessary permissions are granted.
If the application does not require access to SMS, external storage, or
microphone input, these permissions should be removed.
Before adding any permission, ensure that it is essential for the app's
functionality and follows the principle of least privilege.