Google to warn against Android apps that collect unsolicited data

Google has announced new policies regarding Android apps that collect data from users. The company wants to show warnings if apps collect data without permission and makes demands on developers.

In the announcement of the measures, Google writes that apps that process user data such as telephone numbers and email addresses must make this known to users and must show their own privacy policy. If an app processes data that is not necessary for its functionality, then before the data is collected and sent, the software must inform the user how the data is used and also ask for permission. Google will show warnings for apps that collect data without permission. For example, within the Play Store and beyond, on websites that lead to such apps.

As an example, Google mentions that an app wants access to a list of installed packages for analytics or in the event of a crash. Since these are not directly related to the app, the user should be presented with a warning and then be given the choice of whether or not to grant permission. The new rules are due to take effect in 60 days; after that time, users may therefore see a larger amount of warnings. The measures fall within the Safe Browsing initiative of the search giant.

In recent times, Google has made more changes to its app policies. For example, it tackled apps that display lockscreen advertising and took action against improper use of accessibility services in Android.