UPDATE:
The app has been restored to the Play Store a few hours after Paytm issued a blog post describing the whole issue. The company noted that it had received communication from Google that its main app was being suspended because the company believed it to be a violation of its Play Store policies on gambling.
Paytm has apparently removed the “cashback” component that was causing the suspension at Play Store. In an updated blog update, Paytm said, “While it is clear that all activities on Paytm are completely lawful, we have temporarily removed the cashback component in an effort to meet the Play Store policy requirements.”
EARLIER:
Google Play Store has taken down one of India’s largest digital payment platforms, Paytm, from its app store for violations around the store’s gambling related policies in India. The developer account is still intact since other apps like Paytm for Business, Paytm mall, Paytm Money, and a few more are still available for download.
In a blog post published today, Google India laid down the rules for its gambling policies in the country, saying, “We don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads consumers to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes, it is a violation of our policies.”
Paytm’s cashback component, which has caused the suspension, fits the description perfectly, and the timing of the blog post and the take down seems more than a mere coincidence. The blog also mentions that the company usually notifies the developer of the violation and removes the app from Google Play until the developer brings said app into compliance. This means that Paytm could be working on a fix right now and the app might soon be back on the Play Store.
That being said, in the case where there are repeated policy violations, Google India may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts. However, that does not look likely, since Paytm has issued a response to takedown on Twitter, ensuring users that their money is safe, and that the platform will be back on the Play Store “very soon.”
Dear Paytm’ers,
Paytm Android app is temporarily unavailable on Google’s Play Store for new downloads or updates. It will be back very soon.
All your money is completely safe, and you can continue to enjoy your Paytm app as normal.
— Paytm (@Paytm) September 18, 2020
More updates on the same as we receive any.
