Will access to 3rd-party apps for Apple users create security risks?

10 - February 2023

This article was originally published to SecurityMagazine on February 2nd, 2023

Apple has long blocked third-party app stores from its devices; however, the company will now be forced to allow European users access to alternative app stores. In an attempt to rein in monopoly power, the EU has enacted the Digital Markets Act, which requires Apple to allow its users to download apps from independent stores.

Apple argues that “sideloading” — aka, downloading apps outside of Apple’s curated store — will weaken privacy protections and expose users to security risks. But another major concern is that third-party stores on iOS could escalate the threat of brand impersonation via counterfeit mobile apps. This could impact the brand and distance loyal customers, either through poor app performance or malware consumers may associate with the brand.

Read the full article “Will access to 3rd-party apps for Apple users create security risks?” on the SecurityMagazine website.