Learn how Code Signing certificate helps to secure an iOS app and why Signing iOS app is important for the security of App Code and scripts.

1. BUILDING UP IOS APP IDENTITY
WITH CODE SIGNING
https://cheapsslsecurity.com
Not just anyone can sell iOS Mobile Apps, you need to use
Code Signing to get on the App Store

2. So you think releasing an iPhone app is easy?
Think again
Developing iOS apps (iPhone and iPad) requires a lot of work. Sure there’s all the time
and expenses that come along with building the app. From conceiving of an idea to
planning it all out to actually programming and testing it.
But after it’s done you’re in the clear right? All that’s left is to upload it to the Apple
App Store and wait for people to start downloading it, right?
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3. Hardly
• Apple puts a great deal of thought and consideration into security.
There’s a reason the company enjoys such a good reputation in that
regard. And given the fact that its iPhones and iPads have become its
leading products, Apple has every intention of making sure its users stay
safe when they’re using them.
• That’s why, when it comes to mobile apps, Apple requires that you use
one of their code signing certificates to sign the app. This assures users
that the app comes from a known source and has not been modified.
Before you can integrate app services or install your app on a device,
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4. Code Signing is a relatively straightforward process wherein a software developer
cryptographically signs the code they have written with a digital signature. This
signature serves two functions:
Function 1
It assures users that the code, which has to be a script or an executable, was developed
by a known source. Code Signing certificates require the organization or individual
applying to undergo a validation process which verifies their identity and legitimacy.
When that organization or individual then signs their code, their identity can
immediately be recognized by the machine or device that is viewing the signature.
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Code Signing Your iOS Apps

5. Function 2
• It assures the user that the code has not been tampered with. This is where things get a bit
more complicated. A digital signature is not like a regular written signature, rather it is a
string of data that is then hashed. If any aspect of the code has been altered after it was
signed, the machine or device that is viewing the digital signature will get a different value
when it hashes that signature. This is an immediate indication that something is amiss and
the machine or device viewing the signature knows not to run the code.
• With that in mind, you can understand why Apple would be adamant that all of the apps it
distributes in its App Stores (and subsequently allows to be installed on their devices) need
to be digitally signed first.
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6. iOS App Code Signing

7. • In order to start signing your iOS mobile apps and distributing them via
the Apple App Store, you must first purchase a Code Signing Certificate
directly from Apple (sadly, we can’t sell you this kind of Code Signing
Certificate ourselves). This can be done via the Apple Developers
Website or by using XCode.
• From there you simply follow the instructions set forth by Apple to install
and begin using their Code Signing Certificate.
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How Do I Get a Code Signing Certificate?

8. • It may seem like just one more hoop to jump through on the way to getting
your iOS app to market, but as we’re sure you’ve seen, it’s a necessary one.
Mobile security is of ever-increasing importance and ensuring that the
apps users have access to are safe is one of Apple’s biggest concerns.
• By Code Signing Apps you’re providing the requisite proof of your identity
while also offering assurance that your app is being delivered as you
intended it. It’s just one more way Apple maintains top-level security across
all of its devices. 8
How Do I Get a Code Signing Certificate?

9. Important Resources
 HTTPS for iOS – Cyber Security Awareness
 Code Signing Certificate : Security for Software and Application
 Code Signing Certificate – A Zenith Milestone for Software/App Developers
 Maintaining Signing Identities and Certificates

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For more information on iOS App Security