In a recent policy update, Google Play put apps on notice with additional security measures and transparency of personal data usage. Apps or SDKs developed in interpreted languages like JavaScript, Python, or Lua are barred from infringing on any Google Play standards, according to a new change to the Device and Network Abuses policy. The policy will take effect on October 15, 2021.
According to the Device and Network Abuse, a program released through Google Play may not change, replace, or update itself in any way other than through Google Play's update process.
The policy also prohibits apps from downloading executable code from sources other than Google Play. This ban does not apply to code that runs in a virtual machine and has limited access to Android APIs.
Apart from Google Play, an app can't download executable files from anywhere else. However, programs that run code in a virtual machine, such as Javascript in a web view or browser, are exempt from this ban.
The User Data Policy has been revised and will be implemented on April 1, 2021. This new feature compels app developers to provide accurate information regarding the app's collection and use of personal or sensitive user data. It also requires that all apps and the Google Play interface include a privacy policy.
Apps must share user data with Google under the current User Data policy, but it makes no mention of accuracy.
The Inappropriate Content Policy has been updated to include new restrictions on applications that offer paid sexual interactions. "Sugar daddy" apps will be banned from Google's Play Store as of September 1, 2021.
Sugar daddy refers to an older, wealthy man who, in exchange for a relationship, provides gifts and money to a younger partner. Despite the fact that Google did not indicate why these apps will be prohibited, the news is consistent with US anti-online sex trafficking legislation that removes protection from information that promotes or supports prostitution.
According to the existing content policy, “we don't accept apps that include or promote sexual content or profanity, including pornography, or any content or services designed to be sexually gratifying.”
In addition to these enhancements, Google Play has implemented rigorous guidelines for developers who have been inactive for a year or more. "We're adding a new section in our Enforcement policy to close inactive or abandoned developer accounts after one year of inactivity and additional criteria," according to the Google Play policy change.
Apps with over 1,000 downloads and recent in-app purchases will be exempt, but if the developer has not checked in to the Google Play interface or uploaded a new app, their account will be deleted. The measure will take effect on September 1, 2021.
These policy changes and improvements are meant to make the Google Play store safer for users, since the company intends to punish non-compliant and fraudulent developers harshly.
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