Major tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, and Apple continue to deal with the issue of fraudulent apps in their app stores. These apps endeavor to improve their visibility by providing false numbers about their installs and fake reviews. Google is now looking to take strict actions against such apps.
The tech giant announced that it has boosted its platform for enhanced fraud detection. This system will be used for filtering the apps in the PlayStore. It will detect the installations for fake reviews and enhanced rankings. It will also target inflated installation numbers. Consequently, such actions will be filtered to nullify their impact on the app ratings. In cases of repeat offenses, the rogue apps may be removed from the store for an indefinite period.
The new feature is a major step in the right direction as fake installation data and paid reviews hamper the process of informed choice about an app. Earlier this year, Apple announced its plans to clean up its App Store. The company informed its developers that orphaned apps, which are no longer updated by their developers, will be removed from the App Store. However, the company gave one chance to developers to update their apps, before they are removed.
On its blog, Google asked app developers to ensure that their marketing practices including the engagement of third party marketing agencies are legitimate. Google said that the new system would help to maintain the integrity of Google Play and its developer community.