MobSF
Tool manual · Kali & common usage
Forensics · Intermediate · Forensics lane
What is MobSF?
MobSF automates static/dynamic analysis of mobile apps (APK/IPA).
Mobile AppSec testing on apps you are allowed to assess.
Official website: MobSF · Documentation
When do you use it?
- You need Automated static/dynamic mobile app analysis.
- You are following a CYNARKS lab or authorized engagement that calls for MobSF.
- You already tried simpler checks and need this tool’s deeper capability.
Who uses it?
- Security practitioners
- Students in authorized labs
- Engineers validating their own systems
How do you use it? (typical flow)
- Install MobSF using the steps below (prefer Kali package or official installer).
- Confirm you have authorization for the target (lab VM, own system, or written scope).
- Run --help / man (or the Help section) to see current flags for your version.
- Start with a safe example from Basic commands against localhost or an authorized lab target.
- Record what you ran, what you observed, and any follow-up (filter, report, remediation).
Help & manual (like man / --help)
Every serious tool has a built-in way to look up flags. Learn these first so you are not stuck memorizing every option.
1. Docs
https://mobsf.github.io/docs/
Kali Linux
Often Docker: opensecurity/mobile-security-framework-mobsf
1. Installation
| OS | Installation |
|---|---|
Kali Linux | Often Docker: opensecurity/mobile-security-framework-mobsf |
Official | See official docs: https://mobsf.github.io/docs/ |
2. Basic commands
1. Safe example against your own lab data or localhost
docker run -p 8000:8000 opensecurity/mobile-security-framework-mobsf
Safe example against your own lab data or localhost
2. Show help
docker --help
List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).
3. Short help
docker -h
Alternate help flag when supported.
4. List all options
--help / -h
List all options
Options / flags
| Option | Purpose |
|---|---|
--help / -h | List all options |
5. Useful features
- Core workflow and interface
- Reading and interpreting output
- Key configuration options
- Integrating into a professional workflow
6. Practical examples
Example 1: Safe example against your own lab data or localhost
docker run -p 8000:8000 opensecurity/mobile-security-framework-mobsf
Safe example against your own lab data or localhost
Example 2: Show help
docker --help
List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).
Example 3: Short help
docker -h
Alternate help flag when supported.
Example 4: List all options
--help / -h
List all options
7. Important notes
- MobSF is used by professionals for legitimate defense, testing and research.
- Authorized targets only — labs, systems you own, or written permission.
- Prefer reading --help / man / official docs for your installed version; flags change over time.
Related course: digital forensics incident response · Commands: /commands