Google revealed that in 2023, it blocked 2.28 million policy-violating apps from being published on the Play Store, alongside rejecting or remediating almost 200,000 app submissions to address sensitive data access issues. The tech giant also banned 333,000 bad accounts from the app storefront for distributing malware or policy violations
Google's enhanced security features, policy updates, advanced machine learning, and app review processes played a key role in this prevention. Strengthening developer onboarding and review processes, real-time scanning for Android malware, and implementing security badges for apps undergoing assessments are among the measures taken. Google's efforts come amidst fighting malicious actors, including a lawsuit against fraudsters tricking users with fake apps. Additionally, around 1.5 million outdated applications were removed from the Play Store. The ongoing battle aims to secure the Android ecosystem and enhance user privacy, showcasing Google's commitment to safeguarding its platform. https://thehackernews.com/2024/04/google-prevented-228-million-malicious.html