Simple data sharing limitations and special considerations

Learn about the limitations and special considerations of the Simple Data Sharing feature.

Security considerations

Because this feature allows for data access among a group of applications, special care must be taken to protect access to the device from unauthorized users. Consider the following security aspects:

Device Lock

For added security, ensure that devices are secured by a device password, passcode, or pin, so that access to the device is secured if the device is lost or stolen.

Jailbreak Detection

Consider using a mobile device management solution to ensure that devices in the enterprise are not jailbroken or rooted.

Encryption

Consider encrypting any tokens before you share them for added security. See JSONStore security utilities.

Size limit

This feature is meant for sharing of small strings, such as passwords or cookies. Be cognizant not to abuse this feature, as there are performance implications with such attempts to encrypt and decrypt or read and write any large values of data.

Maintenance challenges

Android developers must be aware that enabling this feature, or changing the application family value, results in their inability to upgrade existing applications that were installed under a different family name. For security reasons, Android requires prior applications to be uninstalled before applications under a new family name can be installed.

Parent topic: Simple data sharing