Earlier today, Google has pulled the Paytm app (1), India’s financial service giant, from its Play Store. The move came after the company said that the app had violated its gambling payment policies. Notably, Paytm is India’s most valued start with over 50 million monthly active users, as per claims. Its primary app allows users to transfer funds, make payments, and store their money in the Paytm wallet for future purchases.
Google recently announced its policy update states that its Play Store’s policies prohibit online casinos and other unregulated gambling apps as they may facilitate sports betting in India. The move came a day before the mega tournament for cricket, IPL, Indian Premier League starts. As per reports, Paytm has violated these policies repeatedly.
Paytm Ejection from Google Play Store
The paytm also offers users to make investments via Paytm Money besides payment. Google also has similar guidelines for its Play Store in other regions. The move to pull down Paytm from its app store comes because of the regulations related to app redirecting. The redirecting was to external websites that would allow users to participate in the paid tournament that would allow them to win real prizes and cash.
In India, sports betting is banned in almost every form except for horse racing and other events. However, the illegal market reaches its peak around significant tournaments such as IPL. Notably, it is a significant event for several Indian fantasy sports gaming platforms, including Dream11, sponsor of IPL 2020.
Suzanne Frey, the VP of Google for a product, Android security, and privacy, wrote in a blog post highlighting several policies and rules regarding the gambling apps. She stated that Google has these regulations for users’ protection from potential harm. When any app violates these policies, Google sends a notification to the app developers and removes it from the Play Store until the developers bring the app’s compliance.
