Google Made Changes in Developer Program Policy to Crack Down on Apps

Google has recently made few changes to its  Developer Program Policy to crack down on app behavior around in-app payments, advertising and spyware. 

Google noted that the changes focused on several areas, but mainly around how apps are presented to minors. These changes include:

• clarification on the company's stance regarding sexually explicit content;

• information on what tactics the company doesn't allow when promoting your app;

• a new provision that requires developers to state clearly if an advertised feature requires an in-app payment;

• clarification on the System Interference to prohibit browser modification by third parties or advertisements;

• re-emphasis that advertising behavior must be properly attributed and clearly presented; and

• an update to the Policy Guidelines help site to address tracking and surveillance apps.

Google got hit with a class action suit earlier this month and after apps were discovered using their host phones to mine for cryptocurrency unbeknown to the user.

Google has clarified that it does not allow apps that collect information about a user without their knowledge or permission. This includes location data and behavior, as well as phishing apps, and includes products presented as a surveillance solution. Apps that do track a user's location such as a child must clearly display a persistent notification when the app is running.

Although an app marketplace the size of Apple's and Google's are difficult to monitor, Apple has been a bit better about deceptive behavior. Google's new policies are a few welcome steps forward when it comes to user safety.

Author Venkatesh Yalagandula Follow us Google + and Facebook and Twitter