Google Play Store, the official Android app store, removed the Paytm app from its app list on Friday for violation of its policies on sports betting activities.
The other Paytm applications like Paytm for Business, Paytm Mall, Paytm Money, Paytm Mall Store Manager and Paytm Instore Manager are still available for download and installation.
The Paytm app, which has millions of active users using it for cashless transactions, was “removed for violating the Play Store policy on sports betting activities,” Google said.
“The application was blocked for violating gaming policies, a clarification of our policy was published today before the IPL tournament,” Google told the PTI news agency in an email response. In addition, they added that there will be no impact on users.
Paytm through a tweet informed users on Friday that the payments application will be back in the Google Play Store and is temporarily unavailable. Paytm said: “He will be back very soon. All your money is completely safe and you can continue to enjoy your Paytm application as normal. “
Google had published a blog post from Android VP of Security and Privacy Product Suzanne Frey outlining its policies regarding gambling apps today.
“We do not allow online casinos or support unregulated gambling applications that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an application takes 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, ”the blog post reads.
The blog post explained that Google then asks the app’s developers to bring it into compliance with their policies. Once this is done, the application is restored to the Play Store. If the developer does not comply with these policies or if there are continued violations of these policies, Google may “cancel Google Play developer accounts.”
Users of the Paytm application can still use your application if it is installed on their phones. It is the sixth most downloaded fintech app, according to Sensor Tower, a website that provides “enterprise-grade data on mobile apps and publishers.”
Paytm has 450 million users and, in addition to being a payment app, it offers features like online shopping, gaming, and banking along with other services.
(with PTI inputs)
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