17 top hacking apps for Android and iOS ethical testing

Hacking apps are vital for ethical hackers protecting mobile ecosystems. Android, being open-source, presents unique opportunities for testing—and risks. That’s why using the right hacking app for Android is essential to identify vulnerabilities and improve app security.

In this article—based on insights from ethical hacking expert Arthusu at our “Secrets of a Hacker” event—we’ve compiled 17 of them below, including dynamic analyzers, proxy tools, and APK decompilers—plus certifications to sharpen your skills even further.

17 Essential mobile hacking apps

Here are the most recommended tools in the ethical mobile hacker's arsenal:

1. BurpSuite – For intercepting proxies

Analyze and tamper with HTTP/S traffic between apps and servers. A must-have for any mobile pentester.

2. JaDX – For APK decompilation

Easily convert APK files into readable Java code to reverse engineer and audit Android apps.

3. APKTool – To rebuild and modify APKs

A top-tier hacking app for Android that lets you inspect and repackage apps after modifying smali code.

4. reFlutter – For bypassing Flutter SSL pinning

Allows traffic interception in Flutter apps by patching security checks.

5. ABE (Android Backup Extractor)

Recovers app data from Android backups, especially useful when the allowBackup flag is enabled.

6. GDA (Generic DEX Analyzer)

Perform static code review and reverse engineering of Android apps with this graphical analyzer.

7. ADB Shell – Command-line control

Interact with exported components and manually test app behavior from a rooted device or emulator.

8. Objection – Frida-based runtime testing

Bypass root detection, hook into apps, and explore internal storage. A powerful hacking app for Android and iOS alike.

9. Frida – Modify apps at runtime

Inject scripts to analyze live app behavior—great for custom bypasses and debugging.

10. cURL – Manual API interaction

Build and replay requests to inspect app-server communication. Handy for checking authentication flaws.

11. SSL Kill Switch – iOS SSL pinning bypass

Intercept HTTPS traffic from iOS apps that use strict SSL pinning.

12. Hopper – Reverse engineer iOS apps

Analyze compiled iOS binaries (IPA files) and extract hardcoded secrets.

13. ProxyDroid – Force Android traffic through a proxy

Essential when dealing with apps that ignore system proxy settings.

14. OpenSSH – Explore iOS file systems

Use secure shell access to investigate app behavior and access restricted directories.

15. OpenVPN – VPN for traffic routing

Reroute mobile traffic for full network inspection and secure testing.

16. Rooted/Jailbroken Devices

Enable deeper testing by lifting OS restrictions—use with caution and best practices.

17. Android Studio – Build test apps

Develop custom tools or “malicious” test apps to simulate real-world attacks.

Certifications to back up your Android hacking skills

Formal training complements hands-on practice. These two certifications are highly respected:

• eMAPT (eLearnSecurity Mobile Application Penetration Tester)
  Focused on Android. Covers static/dynamic analysis and secure coding practices.
• 7a Security Mobile Certification
  Covers both Android and iOS, with a practical, lab-based curriculum.

Why hacking apps matter

Whether you're using a phone hack app to analyze traffic or decompile APKs for secure coding review, ethical hacking tools are essential to protecting mobile users.

Want to level up your testing game? Combine these tools with formal certifications to gain both credibility and practical impact. Make sure you check out our ebooks and subscribe to our newsletter to be on the look out for the next hacking webinar.