How to Protect Yourself from Unsafe Apps on the Google Play Store

Google Play Store is implementing measures to tackle the issue of malware-infected apps downloaded by users. In order to prevent malicious apps from infiltrating its platform, a new developer requirement has been introduced. The objective of this requirement is to reduce the likelihood of harmful apps being available on the Android app store.

Malicious apps often manage to bypass Google’s security checks by appearing legitimate during the review process. However, after scanning, hackers add malware to these apps or allow them to download more malicious content. Even though Google removes these malicious apps from the Play Store and bans related developer accounts, cybercriminals still manage to create new accounts and submit the same dangerous apps under different names.

Data Universal Number System

To address the problem of dangerous apps being added to the Play Store, Google is rolling out a change that makes it harder for hackers to infect the apps you download. The new requirement requires developers to have a valid Data Universal Number System (D-U-N-S) number to submit new applications. A D-U-N-S number is a unique identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet, a data and business analytics firm. Obtaining this number requires submitting certain documents for review, and the process can take up to 30 days, which significantly delays app developers who want to monetize their apps on the Play Store.

Change in the Contact information section

In addition to the D-U-N-S number requirement, Google is also improving the Contact Information section of app information, renaming it “App Support” and providing more comprehensive information about each developer.

Google has announced that starting August 31st, all new Android developers must provide a valid D-U-N-S number when creating their account. Later this year, existing developers will also need to update and verify their accounts. All this information is available in Google’s blog post, the Android Developers Blog.

While these changes improve Play Store security, it’s important for users to remain vigilant against Android malware.

Users can also download dangerous applications in other ways. Hackers can target unsuspecting Android users using apps downloaded from the site. For security reasons, it is recommended to avoid sideloading apps on Android devices and download apps only from official app stores such as Play Store, Amazon App Store, App Store, and Samsung Galaxy Store.

Although most Android phones come with Google Play Protect to protect against malware, users should install Android antivirus apps to better protect their devices. Google Play Protect can scan existing and newly downloaded apps for malware.

Ultimately, security is always in the hands of the users. They have to verify each app before they are downloaded. From the use of incorrect English sentences, typos and grammar in these apps to the very few reviews, every aspect should be checked before downloading the app.