Google starts blocking users from sideloading certain apps in Singapore

Google, in collaboration with Singapore’s Cyber Security Agency, is piloting a Play Protect enhancement that blocks sideloaded Android apps requesting sensitive permissions commonly abused for financial fraud (e.g., reading SMS/notification OTPs and capturing on-screen content), adds real-time code-level scanning, and warns users at install time; the program is expanding regionally and reinforces policies against Mobile Unwanted Software amid ongoing issues with predatory loan apps in markets like India and Africa.