Google Introduces Stricter Policy for Personal Loan Apps on Android, Prohibiting Access to Photos and Contacts
Google has recently updated its policy center to prohibit personal loan apps from accessing personal data on Android devices, including photos and contacts. The updated policy states that these apps are not allowed to request access to personal data such as phone numbers, precise location data, external storage, and videos. This move is aimed at ensuring user privacy and security while using personal loan apps on Android.
Effective May 31, the New Policy is Implemented
TechCrunch suggests that the updated policy may have been prompted by the misuse of personal loan apps by debt collectors, particularly in India and Kenya. Debt collectors have reportedly accessed users’ personal contacts through the app and contacted their friends and family regarding outstanding debts. This change in policy is expected to curb such unethical practices and protect users’ personal information from being exploited by third-party debt collectors.
