Mobile Tax Apps Pose Significant Security Risks, HP Study Warns

As tax season reaches its peak, a startling revelation from Hewlett-Packard’s security audit exposes critical vulnerabilities in popular mobile tax applications that could compromise user privacy and sensitive financial data.

Key Findings from HP’s Security Audit

• 90% of tested apps (including TurboTax, TaxACT, and TaxSlayer) contained at least one privacy violation
• 50% of applications used weak cryptographic methods (md5 or SHA1) known to have security flaws
• Common vulnerabilities included:
  • Unnecessary access to phone’s address book and geo-location data
  • Storage of sensitive information in clear-text
  • Insecure cookie properties
  • Unencrypted data transmission
  • Image caching from Social Security input screens (exposing data to potential malware)

Why Mobile Tax Apps Present Unique Risks

Maria Bledsoe, Senior Manager of Product Marketing at HP, explains: “While these apps provide convenient tax filing assistance, they create new security vulnerabilities that many users don’t anticipate.”

“Most people file taxes from their PCs, but mobile apps still access the same sensitive account data,” Bledsoe notes. “From a security perspective, that mobile interface can be just as dangerous as the primary platform.”

The Growing Threat of Mobile Attack Vectors

Many companies treat mobile apps as simple user interfaces while focusing security measures on backend systems. This approach creates significant vulnerabilities:

• Mobile apps serve as potential entry points for hackers
• Sensitive data resides on devices where it may be exposed
• Users often grant unnecessary permissions without considering consequences

Protecting Your Financial Data: Expert Recommendations

1. Review app permissions carefully - Don’t grant access to contacts or location data unless absolutely necessary
2. Verify encryption standards - Look for apps using strong cryptographic methods (beyond md5 or SHA1)
3. Monitor cached data - Be aware of what information gets stored on your device
4. Limit app downloads - Only install tax apps from trusted providers with strong security track records

“Consumers must be proactive,” Bledsoe emphasizes. “Your private financial data deserves the same protection on mobile as it gets on desktop platforms.”

Image credit: Alan Cleaver via Flickr

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