Sideloading refers to the process of installing an application onto a device without using the device’s official app store or marketplace. Unlike traditional downloading, which relies on authorized distribution platforms, sideloading allows users to bypass these platforms and manually install software directly onto their devices.
What is iOS sideloading?
iOS sideloading is installing an application on an Apple mobile device, such as an iPhone or iPad, from sources outside of the official App Store. This can be achieved by using developer tools like Xcode. As of Apple’s iOS 17.4 update, the operating system allows sideloading for its European Union market.
What is Android sideloading?
Android sideloading involves installing applications on an Android device without directly downloading the application from the Google Play Store. This process typically involves downloading an APK (Android Package) file from the internet and manually installing it on the device.
Why do people sideload apps?
1. Accessing unavailable applications
Users may sideload applications that are not available in their region or are restricted by the app store.
2. Beta testing
Developers often use sideloading to distribute beta versions of their apps for testing purposes before a public release.
3. Flexibility
Sideloaded applications can be customized beyond the limitations set by the official app store. Another reason for users to sideload is that sideloading allows users to install applications even without internet connectivity.
Are there risks to sideloading?
Sideloading can expose devices to significant risks. Here are the main concerns for IT security professionals when dealing with sideloading:
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No automatic updates
As these applications are installed through unofficial means, they may not receive consistent updates, leaving them vulnerable to security vulnerabilities.
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Security threats
Sideloaded apps do not undergo the rigorous security checks that official app stores employ, which makes it easier for malware to infiltrate devices. These apps may also request excessive permissions and access parts of a device that contain sensitive data, increasing the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.
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Impact on device performance
Since sideloaded apps don’t need to pass rigorous screening, they can be poorly optimized. This leads to the sideloaded apps draining battery life faster and consuming large amounts of resources. In addition, sideloaded apps might cause system instability or crashes, which can impact productivity and lead to downtime for users.
Prevent cyberattacks from sideloading with MDM
Users can protect their devices and data from potential attacks by understanding the possible risks of sideloading. Official app stores offer app vetting processes and regular updates to ensure that the apps users download from there are secure. While sideloading provides some benefits, IT professionals and users must be aware of the risks to which bypassing these processes will expose them.
Implementing mobile device management (MDM) software allows IT teams to control app installations and manage permissions effectively to protect their devices and data from malicious attacks and data breaches. Application management tools enable users to manage device security settings and blacklist potentially harmful applications.
In addition, MDM software with automated patch management features ensures that whitelisted applications are consistently updated to patch out vulnerabilities and ensure optimal performance.
