Paytm app has restored its status on the Google play store hours after it was barred from the Play Store for violating the gambling policies of the platform. It is to be noted that all the other apps like Paytm mall, Paytm for Business, Paytm Money and other related apps were unaffected during the process. Commenting on the situation Paytm issued an official statement stating, “We continue to work with Google to restore the app. We assure all our users that their balances and linked accounts are 100 per cent safe. Our services are fully functional on all existing apps and you can continue enjoying Paytm like before”.
Earlier in a blog post Suzanne Frey, Google’s Vice President for Product, Android Security and Privacy explained, “We don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads 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”.
She noted, “We have these policies to protect users from potential harm. When an app violates these policies, we notify the developer of the violation and remove the app from Google Play until the developer brings the app into compliance”. She further added, “In the case where there are repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts. Our policies are applied and enforced on all developers consistently”.