Rooting

What is rooting?

Rooting refers to gaining root access or administrative privileges on an Android device, like access to commands, system files, and folder locations usually locked off. This allows users to overcome limitations imposed by the device manufacturers or carriers, enabling the modification of system settings, removal of pre-installed apps, and installation of specialized apps that require root access. Rooting can enhance device functionality but also poses significant security risks, as it can expose the device to malware and void warranties.

Summary

Rooting is a double-edged sword. Many Android users root their devices to gain more control, allowing customization and optimization beyond standard capabilities. Users can uninstall bloatware to extend the battery life, enhance performance, and access advanced features like downloading apps that the manufacturer does not support.

However, rooting exposes your device to significant security vulnerabilities. It bypasses security mechanisms such as sandboxing built into the operating system, potentially allowing malicious apps to access your sensitive data or damage the device. Rooting also typically voids the manufacturer's warranty and can lead to stability issues. With each Android update, like Android 14 and 15, the rooting process evolves, often becoming more complex due to enhanced security features.

Rooting differs from jailbreaking, which is a similar process for Apple's iOS. While both practices grant user access to the system's core functionalities, they differ in execution and the specific security frameworks they bypass. Research shows that as much as 36% of all Android devices are rooted globally, whereas only 9% of iPhones are jailbroken.

Detecting and preventing rooted devices from running an app involves using security applications that can identify rooted devices and implementing policies that restrict the use of such devices in sensitive environments. Companies often discourage rooting to maintain device integrity and data security.

Deep dive

How to root an Android device

Rooting an Android device will look different from device to device, but there are some general steps to follow:

To root an Android device, you must first unlock the bootloader. The bootloader is a program that starts up the operating system when you turn the device on. This will typically be locked for security purposes but can be unlocked by obtaining the unlock key.
The next step is to install a custom recovery. This replaces the stock recovery mode and offers more features, like installing custom ROMs.
After this, you can download the root file, which actually roots your device. Magisk is widely used because it allows for systemless rooting, meaning it doesn’t modify the system partition.
You can then boot up the device again, this time in the custom recovery mode, select Magisk, and confirm. This installs Magisk and roots your device.

The security risks of rooting

Missed security updates: Android devices normally have automatic security updates. Rooted devices don’t get these, making your device and data more vulnerable to hackers.
Potentially harmful apps: Rooted devices can be more susceptible to downloading apps that aren’t approved by Google. These might contain malware designed to steal sensitive data or harm your device.
No security protections from Google: Rooting disables the operating system's built-in security features. This puts your device, and thereby your data, at a higher risk for attackers and malicious apps that could exploit root access to control your device.

The pros and cons of rooting

Pros		Cons
Full customization	You can change just about everything, from the interface look to the core functionalities of your phone.	Security risks	Rooting can expose your device to malware and security vulnerabilities. Like leaving your front door unlocked makes you more susceptible to unwanted guests.
Performance tweaks	Overclocking or underclocking the CPU, enhancing battery life, and making full system backups are all on the table.	Voided warranty	Many manufacturers will void your warranty if you root your device.
Bloatware removal	Get rid of unwanted pre-installed apps that are otherwise hard to uninstall.	Stability issues	If not done correctly, rooting can lead to a bricked device—turning your smartphone into an expensive paperweight.
New apps and features	Access to a wider range of apps and features not available to unrooted devices	Update problems	Rooted devices may not update as smoothly, potentially missing out on important security patches and OS updates.

Rooting Android 14 and 15

Each new Android version introduces more robust security features, making rooting more challenging. Android 14 and 15, for instance, have enhanced security protocols that require more sophisticated methods to achieve rooting. These versions employ stronger hardware-backed security measures and advanced system integrity checks that detect and prevent unauthorized access.

The difference between rooting and jailbreaking

Rooting is specific to Android and involves gaining access to the root user account, while jailbreaking refers to removing software restrictions imposed by Apple on iOS devices. While both achieve similar ends, the methods and tools used are different due to the distinct architectures of Android and iOS.

Detecting and preventing rooting

Detection involves using software that can recognize the signs of a rooted device, such as checking for the presence of superuser apps or altered system files. Preventing rooting is more about educating users on the risks and implementing strict policies and technical measures to discourage or block rooting, especially in corporate environments. App developers who want to safeguard their users and their data can install app shielding solutions such as Promon SHIELD to actively check for rooting every time the app is started, and block those users from accessing any of the app functionality.

Examples

Financial loss through malware: A rooted device can bypass security measures that normally protect against malware. This could lead to situations where users with rooted phones unknowingly installed apps with malware. This malware can steal sensitive information like bank details, leading to financial loss. A type of malware known as “banking trojans” mimics legitimate banking apps to steal login credentials. Users with rooted devices are more susceptible to installing apps from outside the Play Store and are more at risk for this type of malware.
Identity theft: Rooted devices are more susceptible to apps that can access and transmit personal data. There have been cases where such data was used for identity theft. Malicious apps on rooted devices can access the email or social media accounts of the user, gathering personal information that can be used for identity theft. This can also happen on non-rooted devices, by asking permission to access the data, and the user approving it.
Compromised personal and corporate data: Individuals using rooted devices for work purposes might inadvertently expose sensitive corporate data. In a corporate environment, a rooted device with less stringent security can be an entry point for attackers to access confidential company information, leading to significant data breaches.

History

The term rooting originates from Unix and Linux, where “root” user is the ultimate administrative account. The term evolved in the mobile context with the advent of Android, as users sought more control over their devices. Over the years, rooting methods have evolved, adapting to the increasing security measures of new Android versions.

Future

The future of rooting is uncertain with the continuous advancement in mobile security. New Android versions are making rooting increasingly difficult and risky. Emerging threats include sophisticated malware that can exploit rooted devices more easily and the potential for increased security breaches as rooting methods become more advanced. Additionally, there's a growing trend towards more secure and locked-down devices from manufacturers, which could further challenge the rooting community.