To strengthen the security of their Android users, Google has come up with a new addition to their built-in security engine, Google Play Protect. Real-time code-level checking for malicious content or potentially hazardous apps that may be deployed onto devices is supported by this feature. It is in response to increasing threats of malicious applications, particularly third-party ones.

• Google Play Protect introduces real-time app scanning for enhanced Android security
• This feature targets malicious sideloaded apps and predatory loan apps
• Ongoing challenges in app security underscore the need for such measures

Real-time app scanning to the rescue

This real-time app scanning feature was rolled out in October by Google and seeks to detect and block malicious or counterfeit apps that come in over unauthenticated mediums. Rogue apps often do not have a constant face; they can morph it and apply an artificial intelligence that transforms the code. Real-time app scan involves code level analysis, extraction of critical signals, and transmission to Play Protect's backend for detailed evaluation. Now, Google Play Protect recommends such analysis of each new app that was not checked earlier.

Countering predatory loan apps

This added security measure is mainly aimed at fighting against the spread of shady loan apps that have been known for harassing and exploiting customers. There are many cases of violation of users’ privacy by these apps since they obtain information without authorization such as contact details, images, and even location. Even though Google has removed numerous such applications that go against its policy, hackers always find new methods to victimize individuals. This is an initial version of Google’s ‘Play Protect’ update that was first released in India, which is planned for global expansion.

Real-world testing & efficacy

Several experiments were carried out, including that with the Google Play Store featuring live scanning at the code level to measure how useful Google Play Protect is. The tests captured spyware, stalkerware, and predator loan applications among others. This is consistent with results derived from various user tests.