Google Wants To Make Sure Your Partner Can't Spy On You Going Forward

Starting August, Google will update its policy to ban advertisements related to spyware or stalkerware products and services.

Reuters

Stalkerware and spying services allow illegal access to a device, usually to spy on someone and are dangerously common.

The update by Google comes in an attempt to make it harder for Android users to use such apps. Such stalkwerware apps are already banned on Google and Apple stores, but usually find an audience through targeted ads redirecting to their download links.

Google wants to completely disassociate itself with such services. A noted cause for domestic violence, spyware apps are most commonly used to spy on one¡¯s partner. These require the user to have access to the victim¡¯s device, often the case in couples.

Google says no to spyware, stalkerware

(Representative Image: Reuters)

In a recent statement, Google announced an update to its ¡®Google Ads Enabling Dishonest Behavior¡¯ policy scheduled for August. Through the update, Google will clarify its restrictions on advertising for spyware and surveillance technology.

The technology giant says in its statement, ¡°The updated policy will prohibit the promotion of products or services that are marketed or targeted with the express purpose of tracking or monitoring another person or their activities without their authorization.¡±

¡°This policy will apply globally and we will begin enforcing this policy update on August 11, 2020,¡± it further mentions.

Google banned services

(Representative Image: Reuters)

Google even put up examples of products and services that will be prohibited through the update. It will ban any spyware technology used for ¡°intimate partner surveillance¡± that includes but is not limited to -

-spyware/malware for monitoring texts, phone calls, or browsing history

-GPS trackers to spy or track someone without their consent

-promotion of surveillance equipment (cameras, audio recorders, dash cams, nanny cams) ¡°marketed with the express purpose of spying.¡±

Note that the company will not bar private investigation services or products or services designed for parents to monitor underage children.

Anyone found violating the policy will receive a warning from Google at least 7 days prior to any suspension of account.