Google has removed more than 1.7 million fake and suspicious apps from its app marketplace as part of a major crackdown on scams and data theft. The move is being seen as a significant step toward strengthening Android security ahead of 2025.

According to a Google blog post dated February 19, the company issued warnings to thousands of apps found violating privacy and security policies. Along with removing malicious apps, Google also blocked nearly 80,000 developer accounts that were repeatedly involved in scams and policy violations. These developers have now been permanently barred from accessing the Play Store.

Malware-Laden Apps Targeted

Most of the banned apps contained serious security vulnerabilities. These malicious applications were capable of:

• Stealing personal and financial data

• Secretly enrolling users in paid subscriptions

• Installing malware or spyware

• Compromising user privacy without consent

Google said its AI-powered Play Protect systems detected many of these apps before they could be installed on users’ devices, preventing large-scale damage.

Stronger App Monitoring With AI

As part of its broader Android cleanup initiative, Google is tightening privacy policies and increasing scrutiny throughout the app development lifecycle. Advanced AI tools now:

• Review apps at early development stages

• Monitor behavior during launch and updates

• Flag malware, spyware, and scam-related activity faster

These security checks are integrated into Android Studio and the Play Store’s data safety framework, helping identify risks before apps go live.

Google said these measures have helped prevent around 255,000 apps from gaining access to sensitive user data, reinforcing its commitment to user safety.