Google Play Safety Section: New App Security Features

Google Play to Introduce New App Safety Section

Following Apple’s focus on user privacy through features like App Tracking Transparency and App Store privacy labels, Google has announced a forthcoming “safety section” for Google Play. This new section will provide users with enhanced details regarding the data apps collect and share, alongside other crucial security and privacy information.

Details of the New Safety Section

Google initially outlined in May that the safety section would be designed for clear communication. The goal is to empower users to make well-informed decisions about the apps they download and use.

App developers will be required to disclose several key aspects of their data handling practices. These include the implementation of security measures like data encryption, adherence to Google Play’s Families policy for children’s apps, and user control over data sharing.

User Interface and Information Display

Developers can now preview the user interface of this new feature. Within the safety section, users will find a developer’s explanation of data collection practices.

This explanation will be accompanied by visual indicators, each represented by a distinct icon. Users will be able to access a summary that details the types of data collected or shared, such as location data, contact lists, personal details, and financial information.

Furthermore, the section will clarify how collected data is utilized – for app functionality, for personalization, or other purposes – and whether data collection is optional.

Developer Requirements and Timeline

Google is providing developers with ample time to prepare for these changes to the Play Store. The company is now releasing detailed information regarding data type definitions, the user experience, and the policy requirements of the new feature.

A privacy policy will be mandatory for all developers by April 2022. Previously, this requirement only applied to apps handling sensitive user data. Developers must also provide accurate and comprehensive information about all data usage, including that of third-party libraries and SDKs.

This aligns with the standards already set by Apple for its App Store applications.

Submission and Approval Process

Starting in October 2021, developers can submit their information through the Google Play Console for review. This precedes the planned launch of the safety section in the first quarter of 2022.

Google will allow a period after launch for apps to gain approval for their safety sections. However, approval will be required by Q2 2022 to avoid rejection of app submissions or updates. Apps lacking an approved safety section will display “No information available.”

This initiative will highlight the number of active developers on Google Play, as they adapt to the new policy and demonstrate their data handling practices.

Enforcement and Third-Party Verification

A key question is the level of rigor Google will apply in enforcing these new guidelines and reviewing applications. Developers will have the option to submit their safety sections for third-party verification.

This verification can then be promoted to users who are particularly concerned about app data privacy and security. This feature aims to address potential concerns about the accuracy of the information provided in these safety sections.

Similar issues arose with Apple’s App Store privacy labels, where The Washington Post discovered instances of false information being displayed.

Google has declined to provide further details regarding the specifics of the third-party verification process when asked for comment.