Doha: Google has announced that developers are required to verify their identity to sideload Android apps outside the Play Store. The company explained that the decision comes after recent analyses showed that apps downloaded from external sources are about 50 times more likely to contain malicious software compared to those available on its official store. This step aims to protect users from fraud attempts and from falling victim to malware distributed by untrusted entities.
According to Qatar News Agency, no app will be installed on Android-certified devices unless it is registered by a developer whose identity has been verified by the company. Google is also working on developing a new platform called Android Developer Console to serve developers who distribute their apps outside the Google Play Store. This platform will make it easier for them to complete the verification process and register their app package names.