In a bid to address the prevalent issue of malware on the Play Store and enhance fraud prevention, Google has unveiled its plans to improve developer verification and control suspicious activities. The current requirement for Android app developers to provide valid email addresses and phone numbers for identity confirmation will be reinforced with the introduction of mandatory D-U-N-S numbers.
Under the new measures, organizations establishing a Play Console developer account must provide their unique nine-digit D-U-N-S number, assigned by Dun & Bradstreet, as a means to verify their business. Additional company documentation may be required for further approval, although specific circumstances were not detailed by Google.
For end-users, the ‘Contact details’ section in app listings will be renamed ‘App support.’ Within this section, an ‘About the developer’ subsection will display verified identity information, such as name, address, and contact details.
The changes will be implemented for new developer registrations starting from August 31, allowing approximately six weeks for any developers with malicious intent to publish questionable apps before facing stricter rules. Google plans to share more information with existing developer organizations in October, but the deadline for providing a D-U-N-S number remains unclear. Developers are advised to register promptly to avoid potential penalties, as obtaining a D-U-N-S number can take up to 30 days.
