Google’s Play Store has released statistics on its security activities, revealing that it prevented 1.43 million apps from violating guidelines in 2020, up from around 1.2 million in the previous year. Google claims that the increase is due to new and improved security features, investments in machine learning systems, and continued app review processes. Additionally, Google revealed that it blocked 173,000 developer accounts with malicious intentions, stopping over $2 billion in abusive transactions.
Google alleges that it has reduced the number of blocked accounts by raising the verification bar for new developers and continuing to work with Android SDK vendors to limit access to sensitive data. Google considers its partnership with app developers to be a vital component of the Android ecosystem’s security. Google has expanded its program to enhance app security, incentivizing developers to uncover up to 500,000 gaps by finding 300,000 apps. Furthermore, Google has established a developer community to engage with app developers directly, a helpline pilot project for queries, and the Google Play SDK Index to assess developer kits’ security.
To combat fraudulent and malicious ads on Google Play, Google has updated its advertising policies, banning unexpected full-screen ads based on the Coalition for Better Ads’ standards. Google introduced a badge for every app that had passed the independent security assessment by the App Defense Alliance’s “Mobile App Security Assessment,” increasing transparency in the Play Store for users in 2022. In response, Google has seen significant developer interest in MASA across all app categories.
Launched in 2019 to enhance protection in the Play Store, the App Defense Alliance works with security software companies such as ESET, Lookout, and Zimperium. According to the report, Google has expanded its alliance of partners, bringing on McAfee and Trend Micro as new members.
