New Delhi: In a major push to strengthen the Android ecosystem, Google took large-scale action in 2025, blocking more than ₹25.5 crore risky app installations. According to the company’s annual security update, 17.5 lakh apps were prevented from being published on Google Play after being found in violation of policies or potentially harmful to users.
The company said these apps were suspected of spreading malware, carrying out financial fraud, charging users through hidden subscriptions, or attempting unauthorized access to sensitive data. Google emphasized that the apps were removed before they could cause widespread harm.
Certified Cyber Crime Investigator Course Launched by Centre for Police Technology
Action Against 80,000 Developers
As per the security report, around 80,000 developers were banned in 2025 for policy violations or suspicious activities. In addition, access permissions of 255,000 apps were restricted to prevent them from collecting unnecessary or sensitive user data.
Google stated that it has further strengthened its privacy policies and is promoting “privacy-forward development,” ensuring that security standards are integrated from the earliest stages of app development.
How AI Is Powering Security
Google highlighted that artificial intelligence-based tools now analyze apps throughout their lifecycle. These systems are capable of identifying patterns linked to malware, spyware, and financial scams.
According to the company, its generative AI-powered review system examines app code, behavior, and permission requests. If an app demonstrates suspicious activity — such as unnecessarily requesting access to microphones, cameras, or contacts — it is flagged and blocked before publication.
Stronger Measures Against Spam and Fake Reviews
To maintain trust in app discovery, Google upgraded its anti-spam systems. In 2025 alone, 1.6 million spam ratings and reviews were blocked, including AI-generated fake feedback.
The company also addressed “review bombing” campaigns — where apps are intentionally targeted with negative ratings — by detecting coordinated abuse and minimizing its impact. This, Google said, ensures fair evaluation for developers and authentic feedback for users.
Focus on Financial Fraud and Hidden Subscriptions
The report noted that several apps attempted to trap users into auto-renewal subscriptions without clear disclosure. AI-driven monitoring helped detect such deceptive patterns and remove them.
Fraudulent loan apps, fake investment schemes, and phishing-link distributors also faced strict action. Google said its real-time threat detection systems for Android users are continuously being upgraded to counter evolving cyber risks.
Benefits for Users and Developers
According to the company, these measures have improved user safety while creating a fairer competitive environment for legitimate developers.
Given the massive scale of apps within the Android ecosystem, ensuring security remains a complex challenge. However, through AI-driven monitoring and strict policy enforcement, Google has signaled that it is unwilling to compromise on user safety.
The 2025 figures reflect a broader industry shift, as technology companies increasingly move from reactive moderation to predictive and automated security models in response to growing cyber threats in the digital ecosystem.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
