How to Install Docker and Run MobSF for Mobile Security Analysis

The objective of this document is to provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for setting up Mobile Security Framework (MobSF) using Docker.

Step 1: Install Docker

For Windows:

Download Docker Desktop

Visit the Docker Desktop download page and download the installer for Windows.

Install Docker Desktop

Run the downloaded .exe file.

Follow the installation wizard and enable WSL 2 during setup.

Start Docker Desktop

Launch Docker Desktop and ensure it is running

Verify Docker Installation

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:

docker --version

You should see the installed Docker version.

Step 2: Test Docker Installation

Run the following command to confirm Docker is functioning correctly:

docker run hello-world

Step 3: Install and Run MobSF

Pull the MobSF Docker Image

Download the official MobSF image from Docker Hub:

docker pull opensecurity/mobile-security-framework-mobsf

Let this get completed.

Run MobSF in Docker

Launch MobSF with the following command:

docker run -it -p 8000:8000 opensecurity/mobile-security-framework-mobsf

Access MobSF:

Open a browser and navigate to:

http://localhost:8000

And BOOM, the installation is Successful.

use default credentials to authenticate mobsf/mobsf

Step 4: Analyze an APK Using MobSF

Upload a Test APK

Drag and drop an APK file into the MobSF web interface.

Link to vulnerable banking APK

Run Static Analysis

Click Upload & Analyze to generate the APK analysis report.

Review Results

View vulnerabilities, permissions, and security insights from the detailed report.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this guide, users can easily deploy MobSF to analyze APK files for security vulnerabilities, ensuring that mobile applications are secure and meet industry standards.

Docker's flexibility and scalability further enhance the overall experience, making it an ideal choice for both individual security analysts and larger development teams focused on mobile security.