DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A FILE SHARING APPLICATION FOR

ANDROID

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

The advent of mobile technology has revolutionized the way people communicate, collaborate,

and share information. Smartphones, particularly those powered by the Android operating

system, have become ubiquitous in today's society, serving as portable hubs for accessing,

storing, and transmitting digital content. As the volume of multimedia content such as

documents, photos, music, and videos continues to increase, so does the need for efficient,

secure, and user-friendly file-sharing solutions (Khan et al., 2020). In the early days of mobile

communication, file sharing was primarily conducted via Bluetooth, a wireless technology that,

while innovative for its time, suffered from slow transfer speeds and limited range. As

technology progressed, internet-based solutions emerged, including email attachments, cloud

storage platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, as well as web-based transfer

services such as WeTransfer. Although these tools are effective, they are heavily dependent on

stable internet connectivity and can be constrained by bandwidth limitations, data costs, and

privacy concerns (Alam et al., 2021). In developing regions particularly in parts of Africa, Asia,

and rural areas around the world reliable internet access remains inconsistent or unaffordable for

many users. This makes the dependence on internet-based file sharing impractical in such

contexts. Moreover, concerns about data sovereignty, third-party access, and storage limitations
in cloud platforms further discourage users from relying solely on online services for file transfer

(Okafor & Daramola, 2022). As a result, there is a growing demand for offline, device-to-device

file-sharing solutions that are fast, secure, and convenient. In response to these challenges,

mobile developers have turned to alternative methods such as Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field

Communication (NFC), and QR-based transfer protocols. Among these, Wi-Fi Direct stands out

as a particularly promising solution. Unlike traditional Wi-Fi, which requires a central access

point (e.g., a router), Wi-Fi Direct allows devices to connect directly to each other, establishing a

peer-to-peer (P2P) network that facilitates high-speed data transfer without an active internet

connection (Razaque & Elleithy, 2017). This makes it ideal for sharing large files over short

distances with minimal setup or infrastructure. Android, being the most widely used mobile

operating system globally—with over 70% market share as of 2023 provides an ideal platform

for deploying such technologies (StatCounter, 2023). Its open-source nature and extensive

developer tools enable the creation of custom applications tailored to meet specific user needs,

including secure offline file sharing. Despite the availability of several third-party file-sharing

applications such as SHAREit, Xender, and Zapya, many users have expressed dissatisfaction

with these platforms. Common complaints include intrusive advertisements, unnecessary

permissions, bloated user interfaces, data leakage risks, and in some cases, malware distribution

(Liang & Zhang, 2020). For instance, some versions of SHAREit have been flagged for exposing

sensitive user data due to unencrypted transfer protocols and unsecured storage of transferred

files. These challenges create a pressing need for the design and implementation of a secure,

lightweight, and easy-to-use Android file-sharing application that operates independently of

internet connectivity. Such a solution would not only meet the practical needs of users in low-

connectivity environments but also uphold data privacy and minimize resource consumption on
the device. To address this need, the proposed project aims to develop a Wi-Fi Direct-based file-

sharing application for Android devices, incorporating encryption standards such as AES

(Advanced Encryption Standard) to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of shared files. The

application will be designed with simplicity, efficiency, and security in mind—focusing on a

clean user interface, fast transfer speeds, and end-to-end protection. This initiative is aligned with

current trends in mobile computing and user data protection and has potential applications in

educational institutions, offices, rural communities, and even during disaster relief operations

where network infrastructure may be unavailable. By providing an offline alternative to

conventional cloud-based systems, the application supports digital inclusion and enhances file

sharing in environments where other solutions fall short.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

In the digital age, the ability to share files seamlessly across devices is a basic user expectation.

However, despite the proliferation of mobile devices and file-sharing applications, there remains

a significant gap in providing efficient, secure, and offline file-sharing solutions, particularly for

Android users. While platforms such as SHAREit, Xender, and Zapya have dominated the

market, many users encounter persistent problems including intrusive advertisements, data

privacy concerns, malware vulnerabilities, and excessive permission requirements (Liang &

Zhang, 2020; Alam et al., 2021). A critical issue is the overreliance on internet connectivity for

file transfers in many modern applications. In regions where internet infrastructure is

underdeveloped or prohibitively expensive especially in developing countries like Nigeria and

parts of Sub-Saharan Africa users are often unable to use cloud-based file-sharing systems or

services that require an active network connection (Okafor & Daramola, 2022). This poses a
serious challenge to communication, productivity, and learning in such areas, where physical

USB transfers may still be the only available option. Furthermore, many existing file-sharing

applications lack robust security mechanisms, putting users at risk of unauthorized data access

and file tampering. For example, studies have shown that some popular apps transmit data

without proper encryption, leaving transferred files vulnerable to interception (Razaque &

Elleithy, 2017). This is particularly concerning when sensitive files such as personal documents,

academic materials, or corporate data are involved. Usability is another overlooked concern.

Some file-sharing platforms have become bloated over time, adding unnecessary features that

complicate the user experience. As a result, users who simply want to send a file quickly and

securely are left navigating a complex interface, often riddled with pop-ups, ads, and permissions

that do not align with the core functionality of the app (Khan et al., 2020). Also, the

fragmentation of Android device specifications and versions creates challenges in achieving

compatibility across a wide range of hardware. Many users report failures in establishing peer-to-

peer connections using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct due to poorly implemented protocols or

outdated APIs in legacy devices (Alam et al., 2021). These limitations further prevent users from

accessing fast, universal file-sharing capabilities.

Consequently, there is a clear and urgent need for a dedicated Android file-sharing application

that:

i. Functions offline using technologies such as Wi-Fi Direct;

ii. Offers a simple and intuitive user interface free from ad clutter;

iii. Ensures secure and encrypted file transfer;

iv. Works across a wide variety of Android devices with minimal configuration;
 v. Requires no user registration or external server for file exchange.

This project aims to bridge the gap by designing and implementing an Android-based application

that meets these demands, particularly for users in low-connectivity environments or privacy-

conscious sectors. By doing so, it addresses a real-world problem with wide-reaching

implications for education, business, and everyday mobile interactions.

1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The primary aim of this study is to design and implement a secure, efficient, and user-friendly

Android-based file sharing application that enables seamless transfer of files between devices

without the need for internet connectivity.

Objectives

i. To design an intuitive user interface that simplifies the process of sharing various file

types (e.g., documents, images, videos) between Android devices.

ii. To develop an Android application that utilizes Wi-Fi Direct or other peer-to-peer

communication technologies for offline file sharing.

iii. To implement basic security measures such as authentication prompts and file transfer

encryption to ensure data protection during file sharing.

iv. To ensure compatibility of the application across a wide range of Android devices and

versions, with minimal permission requirements.

1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The design and implementation of a file-sharing application for Android holds significant value

in a world that increasingly relies on mobile communication and data transfer. As smartphones

become primary computing devices, especially in developing regions, there is a growing need for

tools that allow users to exchange files quickly, securely, and without reliance on internet

infrastructure. This study is significant to Android users, particularly in environments with

limited or expensive internet access. The application will offer a means to share files offline

using Wi-Fi Direct, thereby eliminating the dependency on mobile data or cloud services. This

makes it particularly valuable in rural areas, educational institutions, and emerging markets

where internet connectivity is inconsistent or costly (Okafor & Daramola, 2022). The study will

also contribute to the field of mobile application development by presenting a practical solution

to some of the persistent problems found in existing file-sharing apps—such as intrusive

advertisements, security vulnerabilities, and poor user experience. By developing a lightweight,

ad-free, and privacy-conscious application, the project sets an example for how user-centric

design and functionality can improve technology adoption and satisfaction. This study is of

importance to software developers and researchers, as it explores the use of peer-to-peer wireless

communication technologies such as Wi-Fi Direct in mobile contexts. The implementation

details, architectural design, and performance evaluation of the application can serve as a useful

reference for developers building similar applications or researchers studying mobile

communication systems. The study also holds value for educational institutions and students.

File sharing between mobile devices is a common activity among students for distributing lecture

notes, projects, and multimedia materials. This project provides a secure and efficient alternative

to online platforms, reducing risks associated with using public internet services for sensitive

academic files. Additionally, businesses and corporate users may find value in a secure and
efficient offline file-sharing solution that reduces the risk of data leakage and enhances

productivity in offline environments, such as during fieldwork, conferences, or areas with

restricted network access.

Lastly, the application supports the broader vision of digital inclusion. By creating a tool that is

accessible, secure, and easy to use across a range of Android devices, the project aligns with

efforts to bridge the digital divide and empower users in low-resource settings with reliable

mobile tools (Alam et al., 2021).

1.5 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study is focused on the design, development, and testing of a file sharing application

specifically for Android devices. The application will enable peer-to-peer transfer of files

without the need for internet connectivity by leveraging local wireless technologies such as Wi-

Fi Direct. The primary aim is to provide users with a secure, fast, and user-friendly means of

sharing data between devices operating within close physical proximity.

The scope of this study includes the following key areas:

1. Platform Limitation – Android Only: The application will be developed solely for the

Android operating system. Given Android’s dominant market share globally and

especially in developing countries (Statista, 2024), the study will not cover iOS,

Windows, or cross-platform integration. The focus will be on ensuring compatibility

across multiple Android versions and a range of device manufacturers.

2. File Types and Formats Supported: The system will support the sharing of common

file types such as documents (PDF, DOCX), images (JPG, PNG), videos (MP4), audio
 (MP3), and APK files. The application will not include features for streaming or

previewing files; its primary role is file transfer.

3. Offline File Transfer Mechanism: The study is limited to offline peer-to-peer file

sharing. Technologies such as Wi-Fi Direct or a local hotspot will be used to establish a

connection between two or more devices. The application will not rely on mobile data,

cloud services, or internet connectivity to function.

4. Security and Privacy: Basic security features such as file verification, encryption during

transfer, and confirmation prompts will be implemented to ensure user safety and data

integrity. However, the study does not extend to enterprise-level security or advanced

cybersecurity protocols such as VPN tunneling or blockchain integration.

5. User Interface and Experience: A simple, clean, and user-friendly interface will be

developed to facilitate ease of use, especially for non-technical users. The scope does not

include support for multilingual interfaces or advanced accessibility features such as

screen readers.

6. Application Architecture and Testing: The application will be designed using native

Android development tools (Java or Kotlin with Android Studio). Basic system testing,

unit testing, and functional testing will be conducted to validate the effectiveness of the

application. The project will not include large-scale deployment or testing on enterprise

systems.

7. User Management: No user registration, authentication servers, or login functionality

will be included. The app is intended for quick, anonymous file transfers between users in

the same physical location.

 8. System Limitations: The application may be limited by hardware constraints such as

device compatibility with Wi-Fi Direct, device storage capacity, and Android OS version.

The system will be optimized for devices running Android 7.0 (Nougat) and above.

In summary, this study is strictly limited to the offline sharing of files between Android devices

using local wireless technologies. It does not extend to online cloud-based file transfers, multi-

platform support (e.g., Android to iOS), or enterprise-level data management systems. The main

focus is on functionality, usability, and offline efficiency within the context of everyday file-

sharing needs.

1.6 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

While this project aims to develop a functional and reliable file-sharing application for Android,

there are several limitations that must be acknowledged. These limitations arise from constraints

related to time, scope, technology, and available resources, and they may affect the overall

generalizability and scalability of the system.

1. Platform Restriction: The application is designed exclusively for Android devices and

does not support other operating systems such as iOS or Windows. This limits the

application's interoperability in mixed-device environments where users may want to

share files between different platforms.

2. Dependency on Device Capabilities: The effectiveness of the file-sharing application

largely depends on the hardware capabilities of the devices involved. Not all Android

smartphones support Wi-Fi Direct or have the required APIs for peer-to-peer file transfer.
 Older devices or those running outdated Android versions may not fully support or

benefit from the application's features.

3. Offline-Only Functionality: While the decision to use offline technologies like Wi-Fi

Direct provides advantages in areas with limited internet access, it also restricts

functionality. Features such as cloud backup, remote sharing, or long-distance file

transfer are not supported.

4. Security Scope is Limited: Although basic security measures like encryption and

confirmation prompts will be implemented, the application does not incorporate

advanced security protocols such as two-factor authentication, certificate-based

encryption, or intrusion detection systems. This makes it less suitable for high-security

environments or enterprise use.

5. Absence of User Authentication and Account Management: To simplify usage, the

application does not include user account creation or authentication features. This

decision, while enhancing usability, limits user-specific customization and tracking of

transfer history or usage statistics.

6. No Support for Group File Sharing or Broadcast: The application is designed for one-

to-one file transfers only. It does not support broadcasting files to multiple users

simultaneously or group-based sharing, which could limit its utility in classroom or team

environments.

7. Limited File Management Capabilities: The application focuses solely on the transfer

of files. It does not offer advanced file management features such as compression, file

editing, previewing, or organizing files into folders post-transfer.

 8. Scalability and Maintenance Challenges: Due to limited time and academic project

constraints, the application is not developed with large-scale deployment or long-term

maintenance in mind. Scalability issues may arise if the application is used in

environments with high file transfer demands or a large number of concurrent users.

9. Testing Environment Constraints: Testing and evaluation of the application will be

performed on a small number of devices and under controlled conditions. Real-world

performance may vary due to factors such as device variability, environmental

interference, or user behavior.

These limitations do not undermine the importance or usefulness of the project but instead

provide clear boundaries for what the application is intended to achieve within the academic

context. They also highlight areas for potential future work and enhancements beyond the scope

of this study.
 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 OVERVIEW OF EXISTING FILE SHARING SYSTEM

File sharing refers to the process of distributing or providing access to digital files, including

documents, images, videos, and applications, from one device or user to another. Over the years,

file sharing has evolved from basic wired transfers using USB drives to more advanced wireless

and cloud-based methods. The development of mobile operating systems like Android has led to

the rise of mobile file-sharing applications, many of which offer users fast, wireless, and

sometimes internet-free means of exchanging data. Several existing file-sharing systems

dominate the current digital landscape, each offering varying degrees of efficiency, usability, and

platform compatibility. The most common types include Bluetooth-based sharing, Wi-Fi Direct-

based applications, cloud storage services, and internet-based sharing platforms.

1. Bluetooth File Sharing

Bluetooth is one of the earliest wireless file-sharing technologies for mobile devices. It allows

users to send and receive files without the need for internet connectivity. However, Bluetooth is

notoriously slow and limited in range (about 10 meters), making it inefficient for transferring
large files. Despite its limitations, it remains widely available on most devices and is still used

for basic transfers (Kang et al., 2020).

2. Wi-Fi Direct and Hotspot-Based Sharing

Wi-Fi Direct allows two devices to connect directly to each other without a traditional wireless

access point. This technology is leveraged by many modern file-sharing applications like

SHAREit, Xender, and Zapya, which create a local hotspot on one device that others can connect

to for transferring files at high speed. These apps support a wide range of file types and are

popular for their speed and ability to work offline. However, they often come with drawbacks

such as intrusive ads, bloated interfaces, and security vulnerabilities (Ali et al., 2021).

3. Cloud-Based File Sharing

Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive provide users with the ability to upload files

to a cloud server and share download links with others. These platforms are efficient for long-

distance or large-scale file distribution, but they require internet access and user accounts, which

can be limiting in low-connectivity environments. Additionally, concerns about data privacy and

storage limits make them less suitable for offline or high-security needs.

4. Near Field Communication (NFC)

NFC is another short-range technology that can be used for initiating file transfers by tapping

devices together. It is more commonly used for contactless payments and is rarely utilized for

transferring large files due to its slow speed and limited support.

5. Proprietary Ecosystem Solutions

Apple’s AirDrop offers a seamless and efficient file-sharing experience for iOS and macOS

devices using a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. However, AirDrop is not available on

Android, and there is no truly universal alternative with the same level of performance across all

mobile platforms.

Limitations of Existing Systems

Despite the availability of these technologies, existing file-sharing solutions have various

limitations:

a. Platform Lock-in: Many are restricted to specific operating systems (e.g., AirDrop for

iOS).

b. Security Concerns: Popular apps like SHAREit have faced multiple reports of

vulnerabilities and data leakage.

c. Internet Dependency: Cloud services are not ideal in low-connectivity or data-sensitive

environments.

d. User Experience: Some applications contain intrusive ads, slow transfer speeds, or

complicated interfaces, which degrade user satisfaction (Obinna & Adebayo, 2022).

2.2 OVERVIEW OF RELATED CONCEPTS

The development of a file-sharing application for Android involves a variety of interconnected

technological concepts. This section elaborates on these concepts to provide a thorough

understanding of the fundamental principles that underpin the design and implementation of the

proposed system.

2.2.1 FILE SHARING

File sharing refers to the act of distributing digital data, such as documents, multimedia files, or

software, from one computing device to another. This can be done through local networks, cloud

services, or direct device-to-device transfers. Over time, file sharing has evolved from physical

methods (e.g., USB drives, CDs) to more convenient wireless methods like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi

Direct, and cloud-based platforms such as Google Drive and Dropbox (Kumar & Rajasekaran,

2020). In the context of mobile applications, especially Android, file sharing is expected to be

fast, secure, and easy to use. Applications such as SHAREit, Xender, and Nearby Share offer

users high-speed transfer capabilities with minimal setup, highlighting the relevance of this

concept to modern mobile technology use.

2.2.2 PEER-TO-PEER (P2P) COMMUNICATION

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) communication is a decentralized network architecture where two or more

devices (peers) communicate directly with one another without relying on a central server. P2P is

ideal for file sharing because it reduces latency, increases speed, and lowers costs by eliminating
the need for intermediary infrastructure. For mobile devices, P2P is implemented using

technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct, or NFC, enabling users to share files even in the

absence of internet access. This concept is especially useful in environments with limited or

expensive data connectivity, such as rural areas or during travel. P2P systems also support

scalability and privacy, as users maintain more control over their data during transmission

(Nguyen et al., 2021).

2.2.3 ANDROID OPERATING SYSTEM

Android is the most widely used mobile operating system globally, known for its flexibility and

open-source nature. Developed by Google, Android provides developers with comprehensive

tools (Android SDK, Android Studio, APIs) to build applications that can interact with device

hardware such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC.

Android’s architecture is based on the Linux kernel and follows a modular design, consisting of

the following layers:

i. Application layer: Where user-facing apps run.

ii. Application framework: APIs and tools used by developers.

iii. Libraries and runtime: Pre-compiled code libraries (e.g., media, graphics).

iv. Linux kernel: Low-level hardware interaction.

This layered architecture makes Android ideal for building system-level applications such as file

sharing tools that require direct access to hardware interfaces.

2.2.4 WIRELESS COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES

Wireless communication plays a central role in the design of mobile file-sharing systems. The

main technologies relevant to this project include:

a. Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a short-range wireless communication technology standardized by the IEEE

802.15.1 protocol. It allows devices to exchange data over distances of up to 10 meters. While it

offers relatively slow speeds compared to Wi-Fi, it is extremely useful for small file transfers and

initial device pairing.

Advantages:

i. Universal support across Android devices.

ii. Low power consumption.

iii. Suitable for device discovery and small file sharing.

b. Wi-Fi Direct

Wi-Fi Direct enables two or more devices to connect directly via Wi-Fi without needing a router

or internet access. It provides significantly higher data transfer rates (up to 250 Mbps) than

Bluetooth and supports the transmission of large files such as HD videos and APK files.

Advantages:

i. Faster than Bluetooth.

ii. Suitable for offline scenarios.

 iii. Supports secure transmission via WPA2 encryption.

c. Near Field Communication (NFC)

NFC is a short-range communication method that allows two devices placed within a few

centimeters to exchange data. It is commonly used for initiating quick connections or triggering

actions like starting a transfer session.

Advantages:

i. Instant connection.

ii. User-friendly (just tap devices).

iii. Secure due to proximity requirement.

d. QR Code Scanning

QR codes are machine-readable barcodes that can encode information such as URLs, device

identifiers, or transfer keys. In file-sharing applications, QR codes are often used to establish

secure connections without needing manual input.

Advantages:

i. Simple and intuitive interface.

ii. Improves security and usability.

iii. No pairing needed—scan and connect.

These wireless technologies together provide the technical backbone for the file-sharing process,

ensuring compatibility, speed, and security.

2.2.5 USER INTERFACE (UI) AND USER EXPERIENCE (UX)

UI/UX design is critical in mobile application development. The user interface (UI) includes

visual elements such as buttons, menus, and progress bars, while user experience (UX)

encompasses the overall feel and functionality of the app. A well-designed UI/UX ensures that

users can share files quickly and without confusion.

Essential UI/UX principles for file sharing apps include:

i. Minimal design for easy navigation.

ii. Real-time feedback (e.g., progress bars).

iii. Accessibility features (e.g., for visually impaired users).

iv. Error handling (e.g., retry on failed transfer).

Apps like Xender and AirDroid serve as excellent examples of intuitive file-sharing interfaces

(Saffer, 2017).

2.2.6 MOBILE APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT LIFECYCLE

Creating a mobile app involves multiple stages, collectively known as the Software Development

Life Cycle (SDLC). These stages include:

1. Requirements analysis – Understanding the needs of users.

2. Design – Planning the UI, architecture, and user flow.

 3. Implementation – Writing and testing the code.

4. Testing and debugging – Ensuring quality and fixing bugs.

5. Deployment – Releasing the app to users.

6. Maintenance – Updating features and fixing post-launch issues.

Using Agile or iterative methodologies ensures that the app remains user-centered and adaptable

to feedback.

2.2.7 SECURITY IN MOBILE FILE SHARING

Security is an essential concern in wireless communication. Files can be intercepted or tampered

with during transfer, so encryption and authentication are necessary. Secure protocols like WPA2

for Wi-Fi Direct and data validation mechanisms help prevent unauthorized access.

The app must also include features like:

i. Session expiration.

ii. User verification via device ID or QR code.

iii. Transfer logs or history.

Security not only protects user data but also builds trust in the application (Ali et al., 2021).

2.2.8 FILE TYPES AND COMPATIBILITY

Android supports multiple file formats, such as:

 i. Text files (.txt, .pdf, .docx)

ii. Multimedia (.jpg, .png, .mp4, .mp3)

iii. Apps (.apk)

The file-sharing app must handle these file types appropriately, using proper MIME types and

access permissions to ensure compatibility with receiving devices.

2.3 SECURITY AND PRIVACY IN FILE TRANSFER

In today’s digital ecosystem, security and privacy have become essential aspects of any file

sharing system. As mobile users frequently exchange sensitive files—ranging from personal

photos to confidential business documents—over wireless networks, the need to protect these

files from unauthorized access and data breaches cannot be overemphasized. Ensuring secure

communication and maintaining data privacy are paramount in the design of any file-sharing

application, especially for Android platforms where openness and flexibility can sometimes

introduce vulnerabilities.

2.3.1 IMPORTANCE OF SECURITY IN FILE SHARING

Security in file transfer refers to the measures taken to protect data from interception,

manipulation, or unauthorized access during transmission. Without proper safeguards, file

sharing mechanisms are susceptible to various security threats such as:

 a. Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks: Where a malicious actor intercepts data between

sender and receiver.

b. Spoofing and impersonation: Where attackers pose as legitimate users or devices.

c. Unauthorized access: Especially in cases where authentication is weak or absent.

According to Ahmad et al. (2020), the lack of encryption and proper authentication in many

peer-to-peer (P2P) mobile applications exposes users to significant data leakage and integrity

threats.

2.3.2 Privacy Considerations

Privacy refers to the ability of users to control how their personal or sensitive information is

accessed, shared, and stored. In file sharing, privacy concerns may arise when:

a. Metadata (e.g., file names, sizes, types) are exposed.

b. Shared files remain accessible beyond the intended session.

c. Logs or history of shared files are retained without user consent.

Applications must implement privacy-by-design principles, ensuring that minimal data is

collected, no unnecessary permissions are requested, and users have control over what

information is shared or stored (Cavoukian, 2011).

2.3.3 COMMON SECURITY FEATURES IN FILE SHARING APPLICATIONS

To address security and privacy concerns, modern file-sharing applications incorporate the

following security mechanisms:

a. End-to-End Encryption (E2EE)

E2EE ensures that files are encrypted on the sender’s device and only decrypted by the intended

recipient. This means that even if the transmission is intercepted, the content remains unreadable

to unauthorized parties.

b. Secure Authentication

Authentication is used to verify the identity of users or devices. Methods include:

a. QR code scanning for session-based authentication.

b. One-time passwords (OTP) for temporary access.

c. Device-based pairing via Bluetooth or NFC to minimize spoofing risks.

c. Transport Layer Security (TLS)

When the transfer occurs over the internet, using TLS protects against eavesdropping by

encrypting data in transit. TLS is a standard for HTTPS-based connections and can also be

applied to app-specific socket communication.

d. Access Control and Permissions

Android’s permission system (e.g., READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE,

WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE) is crucial for file-sharing apps. Modern Android versions

(10 and above) use scoped storage, reducing unauthorized access to user files and protecting

privacy (Google Developers, 2022).

e. Session Expiry and Auto-Deletion

To prevent post-session misuse, many apps delete temporary files or revoke access tokens after

transfer is complete or after a specific time period.

2.3.4 THREAT MODELS IN FILE SHARING

Understanding the possible threat scenarios help developers secure file-sharing applications more

effectively. Common threat models include:

a. Eavesdropping on open Wi-Fi networks

b. Exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct

c. Social engineering attacks using fake QR codes or malicious APKs

d. File injection attacks via disguised or renamed malware files

Awareness of these threats allows developers to implement proactive defense mechanisms such

as file type validation, virus scanning, and digital signatures.

2.3.5 BEST PRACTICES FOR SECURING ANDROID FILE TRANSFERS

For an Android-based file-sharing application, the following best practices are recommended:

1. Encrypt files during transfer and storage using AES or RSA encryption.

2. Implement device-level authentication using biometric or PIN protection.

3. Avoid storing sensitive files permanently unless explicitly authorized by the user.
 4. Leverage Android’s FileProvider to securely expose files to other apps.

5. Minimize app permissions to only what is necessary for functionality.

6. Ensure compatibility with Google Play Protect and other malware scanning tools.

These practices align with Android security guidelines and help ensure the confidentiality,

integrity, and availability of shared files.

2.3.6 LEGAL AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

In addition to technical concerns, developers must be aware of legal frameworks such as:

 General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU.

 California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the U.S.

These laws regulate how personal data is handled and impose strict penalties for violations. File-

sharing applications must provide privacy policies, obtain user consent where necessary, and

give users the ability to delete their data.

Security and privacy are indispensable pillars in the development of file-sharing applications.

Given the increasing reliance on mobile devices for data exchange, incorporating strong

encryption, secure authentication, and privacy-aware design is not just a best practice—it is a

necessity. By implementing these principles, the proposed Android file-sharing application can

protect users from potential threats while fostering trust and usability.
2.4 REVIEW OF RELATED WORKS

In the field of mobile computing, file sharing has become a central functionality across numerous

use cases, including academic collaboration, enterprise communication, and multimedia sharing.

Several scholars and developers have explored different approaches to mobile file-sharing

systems, leveraging technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct, QR codes, and encryption

protocols to improve transfer efficiency and data security. This section critically examines six

significant related works, focusing on their methodologies, technologies, performance, and

limitations. Each reviewed literature provides lessons that inform the design and development of

this current Android-based file sharing application.

1. SHAREit: An Offline Peer-to-Peer File Sharing Platform

Sharma and Gupta (2019) conducted a technical review of SHAREit, one of the most popular

file-sharing applications in the world. The app utilizes Wi-Fi Direct technology to facilitate the

transfer of files without requiring internet access. Their study explored the underlying protocol

used to establish a peer-to-peer local area connection, focusing on socket programming, network

binding, and service discovery. One of the significant strengths highlighted is SHAREit’s ability

to transfer large files at extremely high speeds, often surpassing Bluetooth by over 200 times in

terms of throughput. The application also supports multimedia sharing, folder transfer, and

content preview. However, the study drew attention to major privacy issues, particularly the

app’s collection of user data, access to file system directories, and advertising integration, which

can lead to intrusive user experience and potential data breaches. The app’s dependency on

excessive permissions such as access to location, media, and contacts raises concerns regarding

unintentional data exposure. This work is instrumental in understanding the balance between
speed and user privacy, encouraging the present study to adopt permission minimization and

transparent user consent in its architecture.

2. Bluetooth-Based File Transfer Mechanism for Mobile Devices

Adewole and Falade (2020) presented a lightweight Android application for file sharing using

Bluetooth technology. Their implementation utilized the standard Android Bluetooth API to

discover nearby devices, establish connections, and transmit files using Object Exchange

(OBEX) protocol. The study found Bluetooth to be energy-efficient and suitable for short-range,

low-volume transfers such as documents, images, and text files. The design employed MAC

address filtering and basic authentication to secure connections, reducing the possibility of

unauthorized access. However, one of the key limitations noted was the transfer speed and range.

The connection becomes unstable over longer distances, and the data rate is significantly lower

than Wi-Fi Direct, making it inadequate for large file sizes or real-time media sharing.

Nonetheless, this work is relevant to the proposed study in its simplicity and efficient resource

usage. It serves as a foundational model for integrating Bluetooth fallback mode in environments

where Wi-Fi infrastructure is absent or limited.

3. Android Beam and NFC-Based Sharing

In a 2018 study, Chen and Lee explored the usability and performance of NFC (Near Field

Communication) and Android Beam technologies for file exchange. Android Beam was designed

to allow users to initiate sharing by tapping two NFC-enabled devices together. The technology

typically uses NFC to exchange handshake information and subsequently initiates data

transmission over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct. The key advantage discussed was the intuitive and
secure pairing mechanism requiring physical proximity making it resistant to man-in-the-middle

attacks. However, the researchers pointed out that NFC’s hardware limitations and the

deprecation of Android Beam from Android 10 onwards have significantly reduced its relevance

in modern Android systems. Still, the principles of ease of use and low-friction pairing remain

valuable. These principles have been adapted in modern apps using QR code scanning or one-tap

pairing, inspiring the current study to employ QR authentication for a more modern approach.

4. Xender App: Analysis of Performance and Security

Omotosho and Igwe (2021) provided an insightful review of Xender, another widely used file-

sharing app. Their evaluation centered on its technical design, performance metrics, and security

implications. The app supports transfers across Android, iOS, and PC platforms using browser-

hosted Wi-Fi sessions. The study revealed that Xender excels in speed and multi-platform

compatibility. However, it suffers from significant security lapses, such as the absence of

encryption and vulnerabilities when connected to public networks. Additionally, user data

collection without explicit consent and poor transparency in permission usage were identified as

major flaws. This analysis underlines the need for data encryption, session expiration, and secure

socket layers (SSL) features that the proposed system plans to integrate to ensure confidentiality

and integrity of shared data.

5. QR Code-Driven File Sharing Systems

Li and Zhao (2022) introduced a novel file-sharing model that leverages QR codes for secure,

device-specific identification and authentication. The system encodes session-specific tokens in a

QR code which is scanned by the receiving device to establish a trusted session using Wi-Fi
Direct or local networks. The researchers demonstrated that QR-driven authentication enhances

user trust and usability while mitigating risks associated with open device discovery and pairing.

The short-lived tokens help prevent replay attacks and impersonation. However, reliance on

device cameras and limited accessibility for visually impaired users were noted as limitations.

This concept aligns with the current project’s plan to integrate QR-based pairing mechanisms,

ensuring secure and frictionless connection between sender and receiver devices.

6. A Secure and Encrypted File Sharing Architecture for Android

In an academic prototype developed by Nwankwo and Thomas (2020), a file-sharing system was

proposed using AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and TLS (Transport Layer Security)

protocols. The application encrypts files locally before transmission and ensures secure data

transfer over a TLS-encrypted socket connection. One of the standout features of this system is

its focus on end-to-end encryption, which is rarely implemented in commercial file-sharing apps.

This prevents unauthorized interception of sensitive data during transmission. While the

encryption process adds overhead and can reduce transfer speed slightly, the security gains are

substantial. The project serves as a direct reference for the current study’s encryption model,

showcasing the feasibility of combining cryptographic security with user-friendly design in

mobile applications.
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