Google creates a new process on Android to download apps without verifying that combats the urgency of scams

Google has shared the plans it has for reduce risks that will present downloading unverified applications, designed to prevent scams and ensure that advanced users can perform installations safely, while assuming the risks.

The new Android policies require developers to be verified to be able to distribute their applications in the ecosystem, whether they do it within the Play Store or in alternative stores or their own websites.

This change has an exception intended for advanced users, that is, those experienced users and developerswho will be able to install applications without verifying.

These people will be able to benefit from a new advanced flow, designed in collaboration with the community, which introduces measures for combat coercionas can occur in phone scams that trick victims and encourage them to disable Android security measures to install malicious applications.

This flow requires that users enable developer modewhich “prevents accidental activations or one-touch bypasses,” and includes a quick check to ensure that they are not being pressured by any threat actors to disable security measures, as Google explains on the Android Developer Blog.

It will also require have the device reboota measure that “interrupts any remote access or active phone call”, thus cutting off communication with scammers, and will require users to authenticate again.

This process also requires Wait a day to verify your identitysomething they must do through a biometric factor, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, or with the phone’s unlock PIN.

Finally, and after accepting a notification in which they can confirm that they understand the risks, They will be able to install applications from unverified developers. This function can also be enabled for a period of seven days or indefinitely.

This advanced flow is a measure that aims Add security in an installation environment where security is not guaranteed and that can be the scene of scams that seek action from their victims, generating a sense of urgency in them.

Additionally, Google has confirmed that it is also working on new limited and free distribution accounts for students and hobbyistswho create applications as a ‘hobby’ or for learning, and who usually direct them to a small group of people, such as family or friends.

With these accounts you can share applications with up to 20 people without needing to present official identification or pay a registration fee.