Keeping Google Play safe, we're always working hard

Author / Krish Vitaldevara, Director of Product Management, Play and Android Trust & Safety

Keeping Google Play safe is always our top priority for developers and users of our services. Over the past year, we've worked with developers to keep their apps safe; including helping developers secure their , for data with , and working with to build more private ad . In addition, we're continuing to work on machine learning detection and enhancing our app review process to block with or malicious content from being installed by users.

We also realize that in this ever-changing privacy and security landscape, it can be challenging for developers to keep up with the pace of change. That's why we've been focusing on giving developers clearer updates, giving them more time to deal with breaking changes, and providing more helpful information through Google Play Console "Inbox" information, global webinars, and other educational resources information. Here we share our plans for 2022, giving you plenty of time to prepare.

This year, what initiatives will be expected

Give users a clearer display of application data security

The developer wants to introduce data security to users more easily and clearly. In the upcoming "Data Security" section of the Play Store Listing , you can clarify how your app collects, shares and protects user data. Users say they value this because this information helps them decide if an app is right for them. Users will be able to see this section in the Google Play Store starting in late April this year, please make sure to submit data security form as soon as possible. From July 20th, all app updates must provide a completed data security form.

Building a more privacy-preserving advertising solution

Recently, we introduced you to plan to roll out the privacy sandbox on Android. To provide innovative solutions to enhance user privacy protections, while continuing to support the important mechanisms developers rely on to grow their businesses and provide every user access to free apps. We will work closely with developers to build this technology together. You are welcome to stay tuned, or subscribe to our email newsletter for the latest news.

Protecting developers' apps from privacy fraud

Last fall, we launched our new Play Integrity API, , to help you protect your users' games and apps and ensure they get the experience you designed them to expect. Now that every user has access to this new API, developers can more easily detect suspicious traffic and respond more quickly to issues like fraud. Our APIs are built to be future-proof, so you can easily get new features and upgrade with very little build time. If you want to know how to set up the API for your application, you are welcome to visit official website :

https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV1PS4y117wR/?aid=723764898&cid=503811410&page=1

developers know the SDK

Developers have reported that they want important updates from SDK vendors faster, so last year we opened the Urgent Issue Notification channel for SDK vendors in the Google Play Console. Developers also reported wanting to learn more about the security and reliability of the SDK to avoid wasting build time or exposing users to unsafe practices. Over the next few months, we will begin sharing information on SDK adoption levels, retention rates, and the runtime permissions they use to help developers choose the right SDK for their business and users.

Strengthening the protection of children and

2021, we have further optimized the requirements of advertising restrictions and parental control requirements, and continued to strengthen the privacy and safety protection of children. Eligible developers can now add a badge to the upcoming "Data Security" section to emphasize their commitment to our Family Policy . This year, you'll also see ongoing policy updates designed to help protect children's safety and privacy. You are cordially invited to continue to follow the "Android Developer" WeChat public account for the latest news of policy updates, or watch the policy update video collection .

Responsible Collection and Use of Data

Developers should only collect and use the data needed for app functionality and improvements. For practical advice on this, you can check out our Best Practices guide. This year, we will continue to adjust permissions to better fit the respective case. And, we'll have active conversations with developers about how to reduce the risk of apps using APIs on older versions of the Android operating system. Stay tuned for more policy updates.

Thank you for your support and cooperation in making Google Play a secure platform that everyone can trust. You are also welcome to keep following us for the latest content.

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