In its 2025 Android ecosystem safety report, Google announced it blocked approximately 1.75 million apps that were deemed dangerous or violated policies, preventing them from reaching users. Additionally, the company shut down over 80,000 developer accounts associated with fraud, malware, and repeated policy breaches.
Reasons for App Rejection
The primary reasons for app rejection included malware and spyware activities, financial fraud, phishing, misuse of permissions such as SMS, call logs, and storage, as well as deceptive advertising and data harvesting practices. Google's Play Protect identified millions of risky apps installed from outside the Play Store, highlighting the dangers of sideloading from third-party APK sites.
Security Measures and Impact
Play Protect scans apps in real-time, even post-installation, to ensure ongoing security. This crackdown aims to enhance user safety by reducing data theft risks, financial scams, and exposure to fake or cloned apps. It also emphasizes stricter privacy enforcement and sends a strong message to developers about the consequences of policy violations.
Preventive Security Approach
Google describes this initiative as a shift from reactive to preventive security measures as Android continues to expand across various devices, including phones, tablets, TVs, and cars. This proactive approach is intended to deliver safer downloads and a more secure user experience.
