"Google's Enhanced Security Measures for Android Apps Combat Malicious Downloads"

Google has introduced a new real-time app scanning feature in its Google Play Protect security engine for Android. The feature conducts a code-level analysis of an app and blocks its installation if it is deemed potentially harmful. This is aimed at combating the proliferation of malicious sideloaded apps, which often evade detection by morphing their appearance or altering their code. While Google's Play Store screens apps for malware, many users still resort to sideloading, which poses security risks. The enhanced scanning feature is particularly important in countering predatory loan apps that have led to harassment and even suicides. Google plans to expand the feature internationally after its initial launch in India.