Google removed Paytm a few days ago, citing the latter of violating its gambling policies. According to Google any app on the Play Store that facilitates or promotes sports betting in India is in violation of Play Store’s gambling complicities. Play Store prohibits online casinos and unregulated gambling apps from carrying out online gambling.
Suzanne Frey, Vice President, Product, Android Security and Privacy, said: “We don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads consumers to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes, it is a violation of our policies.
However, on September 18 Google allowed the payments app Paytm back on its play store.
“Offering cashback and vouchers alone do not constitute a violation of our Google Play gambling policies. Last week we reiterated our Play Store gambling policies. Our policies don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting, including daily fantasy sports in India. We enforce our policies very thoughtfully to provide a safe and secure experience for consumers, while also giving developers the platform and tools they need to build sustainable businesses. In the case of repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts. Our policies are applied and enforced on all developers consistently,” a Google spokesperson said.
Has Google taken action against any other such apps?
The title sponsor of IPL 2020 this year, Dream 11, has not been allowed on Play Store. The Android maker says that the app allows users to win actual money.
Will Paytm users be affected as a result of this?
Removal of Paytm from the play store did not in any way affected the payment process of any Paytm users. The only problem which users faced was that they were not able to update or download the app. However, the people who already had the app installed were able to use it normally.
However, only Google had taken the app down. iPhone users remain completely unaffected. Also, since only Google has taken the app down, iPhone users (who use the iOS version of the app) will remain unaffected.
In a tweet, Paytm said: “Paytm Android app is temporarily unavailable on Google’s Play Store for new downloads or updates. It will be back very soon. All your money is completely safe, and you can continue to enjoy your Paytm app as normal.”
Paytm removed the cashback components from the campaign late on Friday and was reinstated on the Play Store.
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