Should you worry about Salesforce security in 2025?

Amidst the recent breaches, maybe YES!

The recent breaches were a wake-up call, and the place this concern hits hardest is the AppExchange Security Review.

Here’s what happened: attackers got hold of OAuth tokens from a connected app and gained access to Salesforce orgs.

It wasn’t massive, but it was enough to make everyone realize that third-party apps on the AppExchange can become potential weak links..

For anyone dealing with AppExchange apps, whether you’re an ISV or a customer, this is the reality now.

If you’re into Salesforce AppExchange app development, this is where your attention has to be.

What is the Recent Breach About, and Why It Matter

In August 2025, a security breach involving OAuth tokens shook the Salesforce ecosystem. Attackers exploited a connected app to gain unauthorized access to Salesforce orgs. While the scale wasn’t massive, the implications were significant.

It has now been established that even a platform as Salesforce isn’t immune if the apps sitting on top of it aren’t secure.

Appexchange housing thousand of apps are generally considered a trusted marketplace for secured apps.

Businesses rely on these connected apps for core business processes. One weak link can compromise the entire workflow, exposing their data to malicious actors.

The recent incident of data theft taints the image and compels businesses not to take AppExchange apps for granted.

And for developers, the standards are raised, highlighting a critical fact that passing the Security Review isn’t just paperwork; it’s the frontline for proving your app is safe before it touches any enterprise org.

What’s New in Salesforce Security Review Update

Anticipating the current fear among its users, Salesforce responded swiftly. It didn’t just tweak a few rules; rather reworked the 2025 Security Review with a sharper focus on safety and trust.

The idea is simple: prevent the same vulnerabilities from happening again and ensure every listed app can be confidently installed.

Here are the key changes made

● Connected Apps:

If an app is uninstalled, it’s blocked by default. Reactivation now requires admin approval.

● Permissions & Access:

Apps asking for more than necessary are flagged immediately.

● Data Protection:

Encryption isn’t optional anymore. Every app handling sensitive information needs it, at rest and in transit.

● Integrations & APIs:

External calls and connected apps are closely scrutinized.

● Packaging & Documentation:

2GP packaging is verified, and documentation must clearly show what the app does and how it handles data.

The message is clear: Salesforce wants trust back in the ecosystem.

What This Means for Customers and ISVs

After seeing what Salesforce changed in the 2025 Security Review, if you are wondering what it exactly means for you. So let’s inform you that these aren’t just technical tweaks; these are the standards at which your apps are going to be evaluated, installed, and trusted.

Meeting the security criteria and understanding the implications is important for app developers.

So, what should you infer from this?

• First, it’s about trust. Customers can feel more confident in downloading the apps that they will know have met the 2025 standards and passed through a rigorous check. Trust is a crucial factor here in AppExchange.
• Second, it’s about preparation. ISVs and service providers need to plan security from day one. It’s not something you bolt on at the end. For those offering Salesforce AppExchange app development services, this is an opportunity. Apps that are secure by design aren’t just safer, they stand out.
• Third, it’s about transparency. Customers can see  Permissions, integrations, and data handling, and all. They know what they’re signing up for, and ISVs can build credibility by being upfront about how the app works.
• Finally, it’s about speed and efficiency. Apps designed with the 2025 standards in mind get installed faster, with fewer review rounds, and create immediate confidence. So, technically, it’s directly related to the number of installs and subscriptions.

So, for anyone offering Salesforce custom app development service, meeting these standards isn’t just about passing a review, it’s about trustworthiness, reliability and professionalism, and ROI.

How Synexc Helps in Salesforce AppExchange Development

With all these updates, it’s natural to feel a little overwhelmed.  Because the rules have changed, but you want to make sure your app isn’t caught off guard. That’s exactly where Synexc becomes your partner.

We guide ISVs and customers through the entire AppExchange app development journey, making sure apps meet the 2025 requirements from start to finish.

Here’s how we help:

• Secure Architecture:We put security above everything, and that’s why we build apps that have minimal permissions, strong encryption, and safe integrations.
• Pre-Review Checks:We go through test drives and checkpoints to spot potential issues before submission, so there’s no last-minute panic.
• Documentation Support:  To prepare users for successful adoption, we create clear, reviewer-ready documentation of functionality and data handling.
• Integration Validation:We cross-check and verify all external calls and connected apps against Salesforce standards.

With our AppExchange development services, your app isn’t just compliant. It’s ready for enterprise use, trusted from the very first day.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 AppExchange Security Review is a crucial Salesforce update to protect enterprise data and restore trust. The recent breach reminded us that even one connected app can create a serious risk.

So, if you are planning to launch an app or need help with security review, be sure to reach out to us at Synexc for comprehensive Salesforce AppExchange app development and Salesforce custom app development services!!. Let’s talk!!

About the Author  

Sambhav Arora is a 7X Certified Salesforce Consultant and CEO at Synexc, helping organizations unlock practical value from Salesforce with scalable, production-ready AI strategies.

Faqs

Q1. Do I need to update my existing AppExchange app for the 2025 Security Review?
 Yes. Apps must comply with stricter permissions, mandatory encryption, and integration scrutiny to pass the new review.

Q2. What happens if a connected app is uninstalled by a user?
 Uninstalled apps are blocked by default and require admin approval to reactivate under the new Security Review rules.

Q3. How does the updated review affect app documentation and packaging?
 2GP packaging must be verified, and documentation now needs to clearly explain app functionality and data handling for reviewer approval.