Last updated: April 29, 2026
Android Keystore generates and stores cryptographic keys in hardware (TEE / StrongBox on supported devices). Apps that store secrets correctly use it; many don’t.
The hierarchy
- SharedPreferences — plaintext file in app sandbox. NOT secure.
- EncryptedSharedPreferences — wraps with key from Keystore. Standard.
- Keystore-bound key — never leaves hardware. Highest security.
- Biometric-bound key — only usable after biometric auth.
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