Disabling Screenshots in Android Apps security feature in app

In mobile app development, especially for apps handling sensitive information like banking apps, security is a top priority. One essential feature developers often implement is disabling screenshots, which ensures users cannot capture or share critical content, thereby protecting sensitive data such as credentials, financial balances, or personal information.

Previous Knowledge

To implement screenshot prevention, developers should be familiar with:

• Android's WindowManager.LayoutParams class.

• The FLAG_SECURE flag, which is part of Android’s security framework to protect UI elements.

• Basic Android lifecycle methods (e.g., onCreate).

When to Use

You should consider disabling screenshots in apps where:

1. Sensitive Data is Displayed: Apps showing financial transactions, personal medical records, or private messages.

2. Compliance is Required: Industries like banking, healthcare, or legal services require strict adherence to privacy standards.

3. Security is Critical: Apps needing to protect confidential or proprietary information from being shared unintentionally or maliciously.

Why to Use

1. Prevent Information Leaks: Screenshots can be shared easily, putting confidential data at risk.

2. Enhance Malware Protection: Some malware is designed to capture screenshots without user consent.

3. Build User Trust: Disabling screenshots demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding users' sensitive data.

4. Regulatory Compliance: Many regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) mandate protecting sensitive information, and disabling screenshots is a proactive measure.

Solution

To disable screenshots in Android apps, you can use the FLAG_SECURE property within the activity’s window settings. This prevents both screenshots and screen recordings.

override fun onCreate(savedInstanceState: Bundle?) { super.onCreate(savedInstanceState) // Prevent screenshots and screen recordings window.setFlags( WindowManager.LayoutParams.FLAG_SECURE, WindowManager.LayoutParams.FLAG_SECURE ) setContentView(R.layout.activity_main) }

Consider this only for release build variant. When we are working on a debug mode it could be enabled for sharing any issue that ocurre in your app

Limitations and Considerations

While FLAG_SECURE is effective in blocking screenshots and screen recordings, it does have limitations:

1. Physical Cameras: It cannot prevent users from taking photos of the screen using another device.

2. Rooted Devices: Users with rooted devices can bypass this restriction.

For these reasons, FLAG_SECURE should be part of a comprehensive security strategy that includes measures such as:

• Data Encryption: To protect sensitive data at rest and in transit.

• Authentication Protocols: Using biometrics or two-factor authentication to restrict access.