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Google Enhances Android Security with AI

Google has expressed growing confidence in the reliability and security of its Android ecosystem, citing significant advancements in combating malicious apps. In 2024, the company revealed that a combination of human expertise and AI-powered algorithms successfully prevented 2.36 million “policy-violating apps” from being published on Google Play. Additionally, Google banned over 158,000 developer accounts that attempted to distribute harmful applications. This dual approach underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment for Android users.

AI has become a cornerstone of Google’s security strategy, playing a pivotal role in proactively identifying malicious code. The tech giant has long relied on a blend of human security experts and advanced threat-detection technologies to tackle malware. In 2024, AI further enhanced these capabilities, assisting in over 92 percent of human code reviews for dangerous apps. Google has also collaborated with developers to minimize unnecessary access to users’ sensitive data, blocking 1.3 million apps this year alone. These efforts have paid off, with over 91 percent of installed apps now utilizing the latest security protections available on Android 13 or newer operating systems.

Google’s Play Protect service has been a key component in safeguarding Android users. The real-time scanning engine examines over 200 billion installed apps daily, detecting both known malware and sophisticated threats like polymorphic malware. In 2024, Play Protect identified more than 13 million malicious apps installed from sources outside the Google Play Store. The company also announced plans to enhance Play Protect with advanced capabilities to combat evolving threats.

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Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Cybercriminals continue to exploit vulnerabilities, as evidenced by threats like Mandrake, which evaded detection and impacted hundreds of thousands of users in 2024. Additionally, malware such as the Necro Trojan persists, often infecting devices when users download apps from unofficial sources. Google’s efforts highlight the importance of vigilance and the need for users to stick to trusted platforms like the Play Store to minimize risks. While progress has been made, the ongoing battle against malware underscores the complexity of securing an open ecosystem like Android.

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