Google Launches Enhanced Fraud Protection Pilot in India

Google announced an enhanced fraud protection pilot in India that extends Play Protect to automatically block sideloaded Android apps requesting high-risk permissions (RECEIVE_SMS, READ_SMS, BIND_NOTIFICATIONS, ACCESSIBILITY) commonly abused to intercept OTPs and monitor screens. Building on real-time scanning and prior pilots in Singapore, Thailand, and Brazil, the initiative targets the majority of fraud malware originating from Internet sideloading, provides clear user warnings for blocked installs, and urges developers to minimize sensitive permission use while collaborating with government and industry to strengthen mobile security.