Paytm has been removed from Google Play. The app was removed due to the addition of the fantasy cricket tournament that the company recently included, which violates Google Play policies, the search giant confirmed. The Paytm app for iOS is still available to download through the Apple App Store. In addition to the Paytm app, Google Play has retired the Paytm First Games app which also included the same fantasy cricket features with real money gambling.
The Google Play listing for the Paytm app shows an error saying, “Sorry, the requested URL was not found on this server.” Android device users also cannot download the app from preloaded Google Play. However, existing users who already have the application installed on their devices can continue to use the mobile wallet and other services provided by the company.
Paytm aware a tweet to confirm that the app will be restored shortly and reassure users that their money is safe.
Along with the Paytm app, Paytm First Games is also not available for download via Google Play.
Earlier on Friday, Google published a blog post highlighting its gambling policy that does not allow app developers to facilitate sports betting. This was a feature that was provided by Paytm through the recently announced fantasy cricket tournament.
“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, ”Google said in its blog post. He confirmed that this was the reason for removing the Paytm app.
Disclosure: Paytm’s parent company One97 is an investor in Gadgets 360.
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