Google blocked 2.28 million apps from being published, including deepfake, AI nude generator apps

Google announced some significant changes it made in its security measures on Google Play Store. The tech giant also revealed that it blocked about 2.28 million policy-violating apps from being published in 2023.

These efforts were achieved through new and enhanced security features, policy updates, and advanced machine learning technologies, alongside more stringent developer onboarding and review processes.

In a blog post by the members of Google’s Android Security and Privacy Team, and Play Trust and Safety team, the company revealed its new, multifaceted approach to improve security and privacy on Google Play Store. The new measures resulted in identifying and banning about 3,33,000 flagged accounts that were confirmed to spread malware through apps and were involved in other severe policy violations.

Moreover, nearly 200,000 app submissions were rejected for asking for permission to access background processes, location data or SMS. Notably, the banned apps also had several AI-based deepfake and AI nude generator applications.

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To bolster user privacy, Google collaborated with Software Developer Kit (SDK) providers to restrict sensitive data access and sharing, which benefited over 31 SDKs and more than 790,000 apps.

Furthermore, Google introduced new Play Store transparency labelling to highlight VPN apps that have undergone an independent security review through ADA’s Mobile App Security Assessment (MASA). This labelling empowers users to make informed decisions about app security and privacy.

Google has also enhanced Google Play Protect’s security capabilities with real-time scanning at the code-level. This measure has already detected over 5 million new malicious off-Play apps, further securing Android users globally.

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Google also rolled out updates to its Play Store policies concerning Generative AI apps, disruptive notifications, and expanded privacy protections. Additionally, it raised the bar for new personal developer accounts by implementing rigorous testing requirements before app deployment.

To foster trust and transparency, Google has also introduced expanded developer verification requirements and enhanced user control over personal data. Apps enabling account creation are now mandated to offer an option for initiating account and data deletion within the app and online.

Moreover, approximately 1.5 million applications that do not associate with the latest APIs are no longer available in the Play Store for new users on updated devices, ensuring compatibility and security.

(With inputs from agencies)