Apple App Store Guidelines Update: Fighting Fraud & Scams

Apple Updates App Store Review Guidelines to Combat Fraud

Today, Apple released a revised version of its App Store Review Guidelines, the comprehensive document outlining the rules for app publication. The updates demonstrate a strengthened commitment to addressing App Store fraud, scams, and unethical developer practices.

Enhanced Enforcement Against Developer Misconduct

Significant changes have been made to Apple’s Developer Code of Conduct (Sections 5.6 and 5.6.1-5.6.4). The guidelines now explicitly state that consistent manipulative, misleading, or fraudulent behavior will result in a developer’s removal from the Apple Developer Program.

A new addition clarifies that any activity violating the developer code of conduct will lead to immediate termination of the developer’s account. Restoration of an account requires a detailed written statement outlining improvements, subject to Apple’s approval.

Apple explained this change aims to prevent developers from reverting to harmful practices after initial detection and correction.

Strengthening Developer Identity and App Discovery Integrity

A new section (5.6.2) focuses on developer identity, ensuring accurate and functional contact information is provided to both Apple and customers. This aims to prevent impersonation of legitimate developers, a key issue in recent fraud cases.

One notable incident involved a cryptocurrency wallet app that defrauded a user of approximately $600,000 in Bitcoin by mimicking a legitimate hardware crypto device’s branding and achieving a false five-star rating.

Apple also clarified its stance on App Store discovery fraud (5.6.3), specifically addressing manipulation of charts, search results, reviews, and referral systems. This targets the growing problem of fake ratings and reviews used to artificially inflate an app’s visibility.

The update also addresses misleading pricing displayed outside the App Store to artificially boost installations.

Post-Publication Monitoring and Reporting

Section 5.6.4 addresses issues arising after an app’s release, such as negative user feedback, excessive refund requests, and other concerning patterns. Apple will investigate such behavior for potential guideline violations.

The company acknowledges concerns about its ability to consistently identify scammers, a point raised by developers and during recent antitrust hearings.

Empowering Developers to Report Violations

Apple is now allowing developers to directly report potential violations observed in other developers’ apps. A standardized form will facilitate these complaints, enabling developers to highlight guideline breaches and other trust and safety concerns.

This change recognizes that developers are often the first to notice fraudulent activity impacting their own businesses.

Appeals and Continuous Improvement

Developers can now appeal rejections based on perceived unfair treatment, including potential political bias. Apple previously allowed appeals and suggestions for guideline improvements.

Apple employs 500 app reviewers across 81 languages, continuously adapting guidelines and policies based on emerging scenarios. The company invests in its systems, algorithms, and training to proactively prevent future issues.

Additional Guideline Updates

Beyond fraud prevention, several other updates were implemented:

• Clarified rules regarding “hookup” apps, explicitly prohibiting pornography and prostitution.
• Creator content apps must adhere to user-generated content rules, including content blocking, reporting, and moderation.
• Licensed pharmacies and cannabis dispensaries can now facilitate purchases, subject to legal and geographical restrictions.
• Apps reporting criminal activity must collaborate with local law enforcement.
• Bait-and-switch marketing tactics and misleading app pricing are prohibited.
• Cellular carrier apps can now offer a wider range of subscription apps.
• Developers can communicate via email, but cannot solicit App Store-acquired customers to make purchases outside the platform.
• Submissions of drinking game apps are discouraged.
• Apps offering account creation must also provide account deletion functionality.
• Minor clarifications were made regarding in-app purchases, gift cards, app metadata, and bug fix submissions.

These changes reflect Apple’s ongoing efforts to maintain a secure and trustworthy App Store environment.