Google has released a report on the outcomes of Google Play Protect’s feature that blocks the installation of apps outside the store since its inception at the end of 2023 and has been operational in Thailand since the past Songkran festival. Overall, it has blocked installations over 4.8 million times on more than 1 million devices and has blocked over 41,000 apps.
The automatic installation block feature will block apps that request high-level permissions such as reading/sending SMS, reading notification data, and special assistance permissions (Accessibility). These permissions are often exploited by apps that aim to control the screen or read OTP codes from banks.
While controlling the installation of apps outside the store may benefit user security, it also presents challenges for companies seeking to establish their own stores, claiming it creates competition barriers. Despite increasing measures to prevent money-capturing apps, most damages result from investment scams. Meta recently took a firm stance by requiring advertisers to confirm their identity and show licenses.
Source: Google newsletter
TLDR: Google Play Protect’s feature has blocked millions of app installations outside the store, highlighting the balance between user security and business competition.
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