Episode: "Digital Markets Act Under Scrutiny: Fair Competition or Tech Giant Tussle?"
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Upwardly Mobile, we delve into the complexities surrounding the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) and its impact on the tech industry. We explore the ongoing debate about whether the DMA is achieving its goals of fostering fair competition and innovation or if it is facing challenges from powerful tech gatekeepers. We also examine how the DMA may be affecting app security.
Key Talking Points:
•
The Digital Markets Act (DMA): We discuss the DMA's objectives to curb the power of dominant tech platforms and create a level playing field for smaller businesses1. The DMA is intended to promote innovation and provide greater consumer choice in online markets1.
•
Non-Compliance and Enforcement: Several sources highlight concerns that some gatekeepers are circumventing the DMA through "sham compliance strategies"1.... There is an urgent call for the European Commission to take "swift and decisive action" against non-compliant companies, including concluding ongoing investigations and imposing fines1....
•
Impact on European Competitiveness: The episode considers the potential consequences of failing to enforce the DMA. It is argued that the lack of enforcement could threaten Europe's position as a leader in innovation, competitiveness, and digital fairness1.... Effective enforcement of the DMA is seen as crucial for creating a digital market where European businesses can thrive5....
•
Reassessment of Tech Probes: The European Commission is reevaluating its probes into tech giants such as Apple, Google, and Meta, which were launched since March 2024 under the DMA7.... This review is occurring partly due to the implications of the incoming Trump presidency8. All decisions and potential fines are paused while the review is completed9.
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Third-Party App Security: We examine how the DMA, by allowing alternative app stores, could increase security risks for end-users, who will face a wider range of threats10. App vendors also face risks such as reverse engineering and API abuse, which is a key concern11.
•
App Attestation Solutions: The importance of app attestation solutions, such as Approov, is highlighted in light of increased security risks12.... These solutions ensure that only official apps from the original vendor can access backend APIs12. Approov offers a more comprehensive cross-platform attestation solution13 that has a lower integration burden than the Apple alternative, and also provides runtime secrets to further protect API keys14....
•
EUTA's Stance: The European Tech Alliance (EUTA), representing leading European tech companies, is also urging the European Commission to enforce the DMA and ensure fair competition4.... EUTA stresses that a competitive digital ecosystem is essential for European businesses and consumers16.
Relevant Links:
•
Coalition for App Fairness: https://coalitionforappfairness.org/
•
EUTA (European Tech Alliance): https://eutechalliance.eu/
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Approov: https://approov.io/
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Open Letter on DMA: This link can be added once the full link is available in the source.
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Reuters Article: EU Reassesses Tech Probes: This link can be added once the full link is available in the source.
Keywords: Digital Markets Act, DMA, European Commission, EU, tech giants, gatekeepers, anti-competitive policies, app security, app attestation, Approov, EUTA, European Tech Alliance, innovation, digital market, fair competition, API security, app stores, third-party apps, Apple, Google, Meta, enforcement, regulation

Sponsor Message:
This episode is brought to you by Approov, a leading provider of mobile app attestation solutions. As the digital landscape evolves, securing your mobile apps and APIs is more important than ever. Approov ensures that only genuine apps can access your backend systems, protecting you from reverse engineering, API abuse, and other security threats. Learn more and get a free trial at https://approov.io/.

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Upwardly Mobile, we delve into the fascinating, and sometimes concerning, world of automotive data monetisation. Your car is no longer just a mode of transport; it's a data-generating machine, and manufacturers are increasingly looking to leverage this information for profit1.... We explore how the vast amounts of data collected from connected vehicles are being used, the potential benefits for consumers, and the challenges surrounding privacy and data security. From personalised insurance rates to predictive maintenance, we uncover the various ways car data is being monetised, and what this means for you as a driver.

Key Discussion Points:
• What is Automotive Data Monetisation? We define what automotive data monetisation means and how car manufacturers are generating revenue from vehicle data1. An average car can generate around 25 gigabytes of data per hour1.
• The Growing Market: The automotive data monetization market is projected to grow from USD 0.55 billion in 2025 to USD 3.09 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 41.16%4. Some estimates suggest the market could reach over $20 billion by 20305.
• Key Drivers of Data Monetisation: We explore the main drivers behind this trend, including:
◦ Connected Services: How automakers are using data to enhance customer experiences through features like remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance5....
◦ Insurance and Risk Management: The increasing value of driving data for insurance companies to tailor premiums based on individual driving habits, including pay-as-you-drive (PAYD) and pay-how-you-drive (PYHD) models5....
◦ Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations between manufacturers and tech companies to utilise vehicle data for traffic analytics and predictive maintenance7.
◦ Emerging Business Models: The rise of Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) and usage-based insurance7.
• The Customer Experience: We look at how connectivity is a key factor for consumers, with a significant percentage of consumers willing to switch brands for improved connectivity8.... The McKinsey Connected Car Customer Experience (C3X) framework is described10.
• Data Privacy Concerns: The challenges around customer hesitancy to share data due to privacy concerns and lack of awareness, as well as the need for incentives to share11....
• OEM Challenges: We discuss the challenges faced by automotive OEMs in monetising data, including hesitancy to share data, lack of industry standards, and lack of necessary infrastructure14.
• Service Provider Issues: The problems faced by service providers, such as the cost and risk of sharing data, and restricted data sharing by OEMs15.
•
BMW's Approach: How BMW handles data collection, anonymization, and customer transparency16....
•
The GM Data Privacy Settlement: We discuss the recent settlement with the FTC, which prohibits GM from selling customer driving data without explicit consent12....
•
Future Opportunities: The potential of OTA updates, R&D hardware optimisation and predictive maintenance24.... By 2030, around 95% of new vehicles are expected to be connected27.

Links & Resources:
•
Automotive Data Monetization Market Size & Share Analysis: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/automotive-data-monetization-market31
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Automotive Data Monetization: Trends & Examples 2024: https://www.monda.ai/blog/automotive-data-monetization32
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Automotive Data Monetization is the Next Big Thing: https://www.netscribes.com/the-road-to-profitability-why-automotive-data-monetization-is-the-next-big-thing/33
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Unlocking the full life-cycle value from connected-car data: https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/automotive-and-assembly/our-insights/unlocking-the-full-life-cycle-value-from-connected-car-data34
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GM’s Data Privacy Settlement: https://fortune.com/2025/01/17/gm-data-privacy-settlement-ftc-lina-khan/12

Sponsor Message:
This episode of Upwardly Mobile is brought to you by Approov. In today’s interconnected world, securing your APIs is more critical than ever. Approov helps you protect your mobile apps and APIs from malicious attacks, ensuring that only legitimate traffic reaches your backend services. Visit approov.io to learn how Approov can help you secure your mobile infrastructure.

Code Obfuscation in the Age of AI: Key Mobile App Security Concerns

• Evolving Threat Landscape: Mobile apps face a constantly changing environment with increasingly diverse cyberattacks. This requires organisations to be proactive in their security measures.
• Compliance: There is growing emphasis on adhering to strict security regulations from financial and other regulatory bodies, including the need for malware detection and prevention of sideloading.
• User Privacy: Operating systems are introducing enhanced privacy features, such as granular app permissions and real-time data access alerts, which developers must consider.
• Proactive Security: Traditional security approaches are often inadequate, necessitating proactive strategies with real-time monitoring and incident response capabilities.
• Security Operations: Organisations are moving towards holistic security operations solutions rather than standalone products. This includes centralised management, proactive threat detection, and compliance adherence.
• Expanded Stakeholders: Compliance, fraud prevention, and business teams are now vital in shaping mobile app security strategies.

Code Obfuscation

• Definition: Code obfuscation is the practice of making an app's logic difficult to understand or reverse engineer, while maintaining its functionality. It is used to protect intellectual property and sensitive data.
• Techniques: Code obfuscation can be applied to source code or app binaries, and common techniques include:
  • Aggregation Obfuscation: Removes structure from binaries by disassembling and reassembling code without symbolic information.
  • Arithmetic Obfuscation: Replaces simple arithmetic operations with more complex expressions.
  • Call Hiding: Obscures function calls by renaming, using indirect calls, dynamic resolution, and control flow manipulation.
  • Code and Resource Encryption: Encrypts code and resources to make them unreadable without decryption keys.
  • Code Transposition: Rearranges the order of functions and instructions to hide the app’s logic.
  • Renaming Obfuscation: Replaces meaningful names with confusing ones.
  • Storage Obfuscation: Manipulates data storage to make it harder to understand.
  • String Encryption: Encrypts sensitive strings like API keys.
  • Data Transformation: Changes the form of data to make it less readable.
  • Code Flow Obfuscation: Alters the control flow of the code to make it less understandable.
  • Address Obfuscation: Randomizes memory addresses.
  • Metadata Obfuscation: Encrypts sensitive information such as names of categories, classes, methods and protocols.
• Assembly Code Obfuscation: Transforms assembly code to make it harder to reverse engineer.
• Obfuscating Debug Information: Changes or removes debug data to block unauthorized access and debugging.
• Binary vs Traditional: Binary obfuscation operates on the compiled binary, while traditional obfuscation modifies source code or bytecode. Binary is considered more robust against advanced threats.
• Limitations: AI-powered tools can deobfuscate code, meaning obfuscation should not be the only security measure.

Modern Security Alternatives to Obfuscation

• App Attestation: Ensures backend APIs only interact with legitimate, untampered applications.
• Runtime Secrets Protection: Delivers secrets dynamically to authenticated apps at runtime.
• Token-Based API Security: Uses short-lived tokens for secure API calls.

Other Mobile App Security Trends

• Biometric Authentication: Uses unique physical characteristics (facial recognition, fingerprints, iris scans) for user authentication.
• End-to-End Encryption: Ensures data is encrypted on the sender's device and can only be decrypted by the recipient.
• AI in Security: AI is used for threat detection, intelligence, and enhanced user authentication.
• Regular Security Audits: Vital for identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance.

Specific Products and Services

• Blue Cedar App Security: Provides code obfuscation for precompiled mobile apps via the Workflow Builder.
• SecIron: Offers app security and runtime protection solutions.
• Approov: Provides app attestation, runtime secrets protection, and token-based API security.
• Zimperium: Offers source code obfuscation techniques.

India's App Store Showdown: Will Apple and Google Bend to Government Demands?

Episode Description: In this episode of Upwardly Mobile, we delve into the escalating conflict between the Indian government and tech giants Apple and Google. India, a rapidly growing smartphone market, is pushing for greater control over its digital landscape, demanding that Apple and Google include a state-backed app store, GOV.in, on their platforms1.... We explore the potential implications of this move, from cybersecurity to market dominance, and discuss whether these tech giants will concede to government pressure. Will India's push set a new precedent for tech regulation globally7...? Tune in to find out!

Key Talking Points:
•
The Indian Government's Demands: India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has requested Apple and Google to feature a government-backed app store (GOV.in) within their respective app marketplaces1....
◦
The government wants direct access for Indian users to its suite of apps2....
◦
They aim to have the app suite pre-installed on devices and available for download without "untrusted source" warnings4....
◦
The goal is to expand the distribution of public welfare services via technology3....
•
Apple and Google's Resistance: Both companies are reportedly pushing back against the request6....
◦
Apple traditionally does not allow third-party app stores within its App Store2.
◦
Google's Android accounts for over 90% of the smartphone market in India and is also resisting the initiative6....
•
Precedents and Possible Actions:
◦
Apple previously complied with similar regulations in Russia by offering users an option to install government-suggested apps during setup7....
◦
India may consider policy mandates or legal measures if Apple and Google do not comply6....
•
Cybersecurity and App Revenue:
◦
The Indian government believes that a state-backed app store could improve cybercrime statistics3....
◦
Apple and Google currently manage app development to reduce exposure to viruses and cyber threats12....
◦
Apple and Google take a 30% cut of app revenue from their app stores, giving them significant control over smartphones globally12....
•
India's Tech Regulation History:
◦
India has a history of imposing strict regulations on global tech companies7....
◦
This includes banning TikTok in 2020 and demanding access to encrypted WhatsApp messages7....
◦
India's tech policies often influence other countries7....
•
Market Implications:
◦
India is a crucial growth market for smartphones, including for Apple and Google1....
◦
Apple suppliers are increasing their manufacturing presence in India14.
◦
Google also plans to invest billions in India for smartphone assembly and services14.
Keywords: India, Apple, Google, App Store, GOV.in, state-backed apps, smartphone market, technology regulation, cybersecurity, digital services, public welfare, mobile apps, iOS, Android, MeitY, government apps, cybercrime, India tech policy
 
Relevant Links:
•
9to5Mac Article: https://9to5mac.com/2025/01/23/apple-forced-promote-state-backed-apps-iphone-india/1
•
India Today Tech Article: https://www.indiatoday.in/technology/news/story/govt-asks-google-apple-to-pre-install-state-owned-apps-on-their-smartphones-report-2669083-2025-01-23 
•

Sponsor Message: This episode is brought to you by Approov. Secure your mobile apps with Approov's runtime protection platform. Visit approov.io to learn how to defend your apps from API abuse and unauthorized access.

Upwardly Mobile Podcast - 
Episode Title: Open Mobile Hub - Revolutionizing Mobile App Development

Episode Description: This week we delve into the evolving landscape of mobile app development, exploring how new regulations and open-source initiatives are challenging the dominance of closed ecosystems. We'll discuss the implications of Japan's new law forcing Apple and Google to open their mobile platforms, and the impact of the Linux Foundation's new Open Mobile Hub. We will also explore how developers can secure their apps in open environments, using solutions like Approov.

Key Discussion Points:
●
Japan's New Law:
○ Japan's parliament has passed a law requiring Apple and Google to allow third-party app stores and payment providers on their mobile devices.
○ This law aims to foster a more innovative and open smartphone market by addressing the current oligopoly.
○ The law also mandates that users be able to change default settings and that developers have access to the same level of performance as the designated providers4.
○ Fines for non-compliance could reach 20% of relevant turnover5.
○ This is similar to the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA)6.

● The Linux Foundation's Open Mobile Hub (OMH):
○ The Linux Foundation Europe has launched the Open Mobile Hub, an open-source framework for cross-platform mobile development78.
○ The OMH aims to reduce complexity and accelerate app development with a unified suite of SDKs and tools8.
○ Key features include SDKs for Login & Authentication, Maps & Location, and Storage9.
○ The OMH also features extensible plugins, allowing third-party services to be integrated, such as mapping services910.
○ Founding organizations include Futurewei, Squid, Meetkai, BharOS, and Amaze8.

● Security in Open Ecosystems:
○ Non-GMS (Google Mobile Services) apps face unique security challenges, including a lack of Google's security services and increased risk of malware11.
App attestation is crucial for verifying the integrity of apps and devices, protecting against tampering12.
○ Approov offers an alternative to Google's PlayIntegrity and SafetyNet for app attestation, especially for non-GMS apps131415.
○ Approov provides real-time threat detection, customizable policies, and continuous monitoring1416.
○ Open ecosystems can be as secure as closed ones and can offer increased flexibility and adaptability1718.
○ Openness fosters innovation, collaboration, and better standards18.

Links Mentioned:
● The Register Article: https://www.theregister.com/2024/06/13/japan_dma_law/
● Linux Foundation Europe: https://linuxfoundation.eu/
● Open Mobile Hub: https://openmobilehub.org
● Approov: https://www.approov.io
● Approov Blog post on Enhancing Android App Security: https://www.approov.io/blog/enhancing-android-app-security-approovs-role-with-non-gms-apps/
● Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) Act Outline [PDF]: (This PDF needs to be located and linked)

Keywords:
● Mobile app development
● Open ecosystems
● Third-party app stores
● App attestation
● Non-GMS apps
● Google Mobile Services
● Linux Foundation Europe
● Open Mobile Hub
● Approov
● Japan Digital Markets Act
● Cross-platform development
● Mobile security
● Android security
● API security
● Mobile payments
● Digital Markets Act (DMA)
● Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP)

Call to Action:
● Visit the Linux Foundation Europe and Open Mobile Hub websites to learn more and get involved.
● Check out Approov for robust app attestation solutions.
● Subscribe to our podcast for more insights on the mobile tech world.
● Share this episode with other mobile app developers.

Little Red Book, Big Data Risk: The REDnote Security Threat

In this episode of Upwardly Mobile, we dive into the complex and concerning rise of REDnote, the Chinese social media app gaining traction in the US after the TikTok ban. Is it just a new platform for social media users or a significant threat to data security and national security? We explore the reasons why millions of Americans are migrating to this app, the potential dangers it poses, and what it means for the future of social media regulation. Join us as we unpack the paradox of users flocking to a platform with even greater potential risks than the one they left behind.

Audio Summary/Episode Notes:
•Introduction: The US Supreme Court has upheld the ban on TikTok, causing a mass migration of users to the Chinese social media platform, REDnote1.... This episode explores the security and privacy implications of this move.
• The Rise of REDnote: We discuss the rapid increase in REDnote users, with over 3 million Americans joining in a single day2.... The app is now at the top of the US App Store4. This surge in popularity is driven by users seeking an alternative platform after the TikTok ban, with some jokingly saying they are willingly giving their data to China as payback for the ban4....
• What is REDnote? REDnote, known as Xiaohongshu in China, is a lifestyle-focused platform combining features of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok6. It has over 300 million monthly users globally6. It is one of the few social media platforms that operate on both sides of the Great Firewall7.
•
The Cybersecurity Risks:
◦ Data Storage: Unlike TikTok, which has attempted to store some data on US servers, REDnote's servers are primarily located in China8. This means user data is subject to Chinese cybersecurity laws, requiring companies to grant government access upon request8....
◦ Terms of Service: REDnote's terms of service are written in Mandarin, making it difficult for US users to understand the implications of data usage7....
◦ Government Access: Experts warn that the app could be used by the Chinese government for espionage and influence operations10. It is easier for the Chinese government to spy on Americans and push propaganda through this platform7.
◦
Lack of Vetting: REDnote has not been vetted as extensively as TikTok, making it potentially more dangerous.
• The Paradox of the Ban: The attempt to protect American users from Chinese data collection has led many to voluntarily join another Chinese-owned app, highlighting a paradox in digital platform regulation6....
• Content Control: REDnote’s content moderation policies appear stricter than TikTok’s, with searches for terms like "Xi Jinping" and "Free Hong Kong" yielding no results.
• Potential Regulatory Scrutiny: Like TikTok, REDnote could face similar scrutiny under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act12. However, the chances of a Chinese company like REDnote complying with US requirements seem slim.
• The Bigger Picture: The focus on banning foreign platforms like TikTok without addressing systemic issues within domestic social media is an incomplete solution14. A comprehensive approach is needed to hold all social media companies accountable for their data practices.
• User Attitudes: Many users seem willing to accept the risks of using REDnote, prioritising digital community over data privacy.
• Legislative Lag: Legislation often fails to keep up with rapidly evolving technology, leaving users unprotected against new threats

Relevant Links:
• TechTarget: https://www.techtarget.com/ - TechTarget and Informa Tech's Digital Business Combine, where the original article appears.
• Dark Reading: https://www.darkreading.com/ - Source of the article, "Has the TikTok Ban Already Backfired on US Cybersecurity?"
• Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/ - Source of "RedNote's Paradoxical Rise: Why Are Millions Flocking To A Chinese App That Could Be Banned Like TikTok?"
• Approov Website: https://approov.io/ - Sponsor Website. Approov provides API security solutions that can help protect mobile apps from malicious attacks and data breaches.
• NBC News: https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/social-media/chinese-app-rednote-pose-greater-security-risks-tiktok-rcna187619
• Newsweek: https://www.newsweek.com/tiktok-ban-rednote-poses-national-security-risks-too-experts-warn-2015096
• Yahoo News: https://www.yahoo.com/news/chinese-tiktok-alternative-rednote-could-200302709.html •NYPost: https://nypost.com/2025/01/15/business/china-owned-tiktok-alternative-rednotes-surge-in-us-sparks-alarm-over-serious-security-risks/

Upwardly Mobile: Apple Under Fire: £1.5 Billion App Store Lawsuit

Episode Summary: In this episode of Upwardly Mobile, we delve into the groundbreaking £1.5 billion class-action lawsuit that Apple is facing in the UK. We break down the complex legal battle, the arguments from both sides, and what it could mean for consumers and the tech industry as a whole. Is Apple abusing its dominant position in the app market, or is this just another example of opportunistic litigation? We'll explore the details of this landmark case. Key Discussion Points:

• The Lawsuit: A detailed look at the class action lawsuit filed against Apple, alleging anti-competitive practices related to its App Store. The case claims that Apple forces iOS users to download apps exclusively from its App Store while charging developers significant commissions.
• The Allegations: The claimants argue that Apple has established a monopoly by requiring developers to use its App Store and that the commissions, up to 30% on purchases, are excessive and unfairly passed on to consumers. These commissions are claimed to be much higher than if alternative platforms existed.
• Who's Involved?: We cover the key players, including Rachael Kent, the "class representative" from King’s College London, who is leading the case on behalf of 19.6 million UK iPhone and iPad users. The legal teams are led by Mark Hoskins KC and Tim Ward KC.
• Apple's Defence: Apple has dismissed the lawsuit as "meritless", arguing that its App Store commissions are comparable to other digital marketplaces. They claim that most apps are free and many developers qualify for a reduced 15% commission rate. Apple further argues that the market definition used by the claimants is too narrow.
• Market Dominance: The claimants argue Apple has entrenched market power in its "ecosystem" of devices and software. Apple disputes that they have a dominant position in the broader digital transaction and device market.
• The Legal Battle: This is the first case of its kind to reach trial in the UK. The seven-week trial at the UK's Competition Appeal Tribunal is being closely watched. The newly appointed CFO of Apple, Kevan Parekh, is expected to testify.
• Broader Context: This lawsuit is part of a wider trend of legal challenges against Big Tech companies. We also mention other legal actions against Apple, including a £785 million UK lawsuit related to developer fees and a €500 million fine by the European Commission for breaching competition rules relating to music streaming services. There is also a class action lawsuit by Which? against Apple for alleged iCloud Monopoly.
• Implications: The outcome of this case could have significant implications for app developers, consumers, and other tech companies facing similar antitrust claims.

Relevant Links:

• Financial Times Article: https://www.ft.com/content/4781c5b9-c6cb-4c94-8e35-1a5676c0c660
• MacRumors Article: https://www.macrumors.com/2025/01/13/apple-1-5-billion-uk-lawsuit-app-store/
• Lawyer Monthly Article: https://www.lawyer-monthly.com/2025/01/apple-faces-1-5bn-class-action-in-uk-over-app-store-commissions/

Sponsor Message: This episode is brought to you by Approov, the mobile app security experts. Approov protects your APIs and backend systems from unauthorized access, ensuring the integrity of your mobile services. Learn more at approov.io.

Upwardly Mobile | Episode: Level Up Your Revenue: How to Reduce App Store Fees and Combat Cheating

Episode Summary: Are you a mobile game developer struggling with the high costs of app store fees and the persistent threat of cheating? In this episode of Upwardly Mobile, we dive deep into strategies to maximise your revenue and protect your games. We'll explore how to navigate the complex landscape of app store fees charged by Apple and Google and introduce innovative solutions to help you keep more of your earnings. We'll also tackle the crucial topic of game security, with a focus on preventing exploits using tools like GameGuardian, which can damage your game's integrity and reputation. Key Topics Discussed:

• The Financial Burden of App Store Fees: Apple and Google charge substantial fees for in-app purchases, ranging from 15% to 30%. These costs can severely impact a developer's profitability, particularly for smaller studios. We'll discuss how to minimise these costs.
• Flexion: An Alternative Approach: Learn how Flexion (NASDAQ: FLEXM) offers an alternative to traditional app distribution, allowing you to bypass some of the high fees imposed by major platforms. Flexion enables developers to distribute games across various alternative app stores, such as the Samsung Galaxy Store, Huawei AppGallery, Xiaomi GetApps, and Amazon Appstore. This approach not only broadens your audience reach but also reduces reliance on high-fee models.
• Benefits of Using Flexion:
  • Reduced Upfront Costs: Enter alternative markets with little to no upfront investment.
  • Enhanced Revenue: Games distributed through Flexion’s channels have seen an increase in revenue by approximately 10% compared to Google Play.
  • Simplified Integration: Flexion offers a streamlined onboarding process.
  • Expertise in User Acquisition: Flexion aids developers in user acquisition strategies tailored for alternative app stores.
• Monetisation Strategies: Explore alternative monetisation strategies beyond in-app purchases, such as subscription models, advertising and partnerships, to potentially lower the percentage of fees paid to platform holders. Structuring in-app purchases strategically can also help maximise revenue and minimise fees.
• GameGuardian and Cheating: The impact of cheating on a game’s reputation and the user experience will be discussed. GameGuardian, a tool that allows users to modify in-game values, is a significant threat.
• Approov Mobile Security: Discover how Approov Mobile Security can detect and prevent cheating attempts, including those using GameGuardian. Approov provides real-time protection with RASP (Runtime Application Self Protection) and customisable measures. Integrating the Approov SDK is straightforward and provides benefits like fair play, improved reputation, and increased user retention.

Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Flexion: https://www.flexionmobile.com/
• Flexion and Digital Turbine Unlock Alternative App Distribution: [https://www.adweek.com/adweek-wire/flexion-and-digital-turbine-unlock-alternative-app-distribut ion-and-superior-monetization-2/](https://www.adweek.com/adweek-wire/flexion-and-digital-turbine-unlock-alternative-app-distribut ion-and-superior-monetization-2/)
• App Store Publishing Costs: A Complete Breakdown: https://www.knguru.de/en/blog/was-kostet-es-eine-app-im-appstore-zu-veroffentlichen
• MY.GAMES Expands Markets with Flexion: https://news.cision.com/flexion-mobile/r/my-games-is-latest-big-name-developer-to-expand-its-markets-with-flexion,c4045246
• Flexion to bring more games from NEOCRAFT to Alternative App Stores: [https://news.cision.com/flexion-mobile/r/flexion-to-bring-more-games-from-neocraft-to-alternativ e-app-stores,c3917837](https://news.cision.com/flexion-mobile/r/flexion-to-bring-more-games-from-neocraft-to-alternativ e-app-stores,c3917837)
• The Game Developers' Guide to App Store Regulations: https://dev.stash.gg/blog/game-developers-guide-to-app-store-regulations
• Flexion signs Gossip Harbor: [https://view.news.eu.nasdaq.com/view?id=bd020aacfb10b3898a11dfeed99bbdb2d&lang=en&sr c=micro](https://view.news.eu.nasdaq.com/view?id=bd020aacfb10b3898a11dfeed99bbdb2d&lang=en&sr c=micro)
• Approov Mobile Security: https://www.approov.io/

Sponsor: This episode was brought to you by Approov Mobile Security, the leading solution for protecting your mobile apps and APIs from threats like cheating and tampering. Visit approov.io to learn more and secure your games today. Keywords: Mobile game development, app store fees, Google Play, Apple App Store, Flexion, alternative app stores, revenue optimisation, tax optimisation, game security, cheating, GameGuardian, Approov Mobile Security, RASP, user acquisition, monetization strategies. Hashtags: #MobileGameDev #AppStoreFees #GameSecurity #Flexion #Approov #GameDev #IndieGameDev #MobileGaming #RevenueOptimization #CheatingPrevention

This episode of Upwardly Mobile explores the security challenges in automotive mobile application development.
As cars become more connected, they also become prime targets for cyberattacks. Insecure mobile apps represent a significant attack vector in the connected car ecosystem, as they provide criminals with a gateway to access vehicle systems and sensitive data12.
APIs, which are essential to the automotive data ecosystem, also introduce security risks. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in APIs to gain unauthorised access to or control over vehicle systems. Cases have already occurred where hackers accessed account credentials to launch remote attacks on vehicle APIs23.
Connected car apps face various threats, such as unauthorised access, insecure data transmission, app vulnerabilities, malware, and physical security risks. These threats can endanger user safety, compromise data privacy, and disrupt vehicle functionality3.
Traditional approaches to cybersecurity have relied on perimeter-based static defences. This approach is insufficient for the automotive industry due to the lack of a clear perimeter in connected vehicles and the dynamic nature of cyber threats. Zero trust is a security concept that assumes no implicit trust, regardless of whether the connection is external or internal45.
Approov Mobile Security can enhance vehicle API security by allowing only authorised apps access, preventing API abuse and unauthorized data access. Approov's adaptable security policies enable a dynamic threat response, offering continuous protection for connected car systems against evolving cyber risks.
Learn more about Approov Mobile Security at https://www.approov.io/. Read the BMW case study here: https://www.approov.io/customers/bmw.
Please note that this podcast was created with the assistance of AI.