Google’s primary objective is to ensure the safety and trustworthiness of its users. With this in mind, the tech giant rejected 2.28 million apps that violated policies and did not allow them to be published on the Play Store. Additionally, Google has bolstered its developer onboarding and review procedures. This means developers must initially provide more identity information to establish their Play accounts.
In its blog post, Google emphasised that it has banned 333K bad accounts from Play for malware violations. Moreover, it rejected 200K app submissions to ensure proper usage of sensitive permissions, such as background location and access to SMS and contacts.
Much-Needed Privacy Changes
Starting now, when users search for VPN apps, they’ll see a banner on Google Play explaining the “Independent Security Review” badge in the Data Safety section. It’s helpful to know which developers prioritise security and privacy.
On top of that, apps downloaded from external sources will undergo real-time scanning to counter new malicious apps and safeguard users.
Additionally, Google has partnered with Microsoft and Meta to establish the App Defense Alliance (ADA). This partnership aims to promote the widespread adoption of best practices and guidelines for app security and implement countermeasures against emerging security risks.
Severe Developer Requirements and Guidelines
New developer accounts must adhere to the following requirements:
- Developers must test their apps, collect feedback, and ensure readiness before the launch.
- Fulfilling expanded developer verification requirements, including D-U-N-S (business) numbers for organisations and a new ‘About the developer’ section.
- Developers must offer an account and data deletion option within apps when enabling account creation.
There’s More to It…
Google has also removed 1.5 million apps from the Play Store that haven’t been updated to work with the latest Android version for people who have updated their phones.
As a result of this major incident, the tech giant initiated legal action against two app developers who repeatedly attempted to upload fraudulent investment and cryptocurrency exchange apps, aiming to deceive users.
Overall, this is not the end. Google plans to roll out new safety initiatives in 2024 to eliminate apps from the Play Store that lack transparency regarding their privacy practices.
