Google will keep Android users safe from unused apps

Google Play Protect is making significant changes to how it works, automatically removing unused app permissions.

According to Extra, 25% of apps downloaded by mobile users are used only once and never used again Unfortunately, with the amount of permissions required for the installation of many applications, this can lead to significant privacy and security risks in the long run. Google is now addressing this with a Google Play Protect update that will remove permissions from unused apps for some time.

Google Play Protect is designed to protect Android devices from malicious apps and other malware. According to Chrome unboxed, Play Protect will now help protect devices from unused apps. Android 11 and later already had this feature, which for some time removed the ability of unused apps to access cameras, microphones and more. With this latest update, Android 10 and earlier will also benefit from security.

Read more: The best antivirus app and the best anti-malware app for Android

Obviously, there are some apps that always need to have access to Android and device functionality. Developers can flag their apps as protected from Play Protect’s automatic clean-up feature. This will ensure that the apps do not crash, no matter how much time is spent in use.

Users who want to see which app’s permission will be revoked can open the Play Store, tap on their profile and select “Play Protect”. Apps scheduled for removal of permissions will be listed under “Remove permissions for unused apps”.