In a stunning development, Google has removed PayTM mobile App from the play store citing guidelines on gambling. The mobile apps owned by PayTM such as Paytm for Business, Paytm Mall, Paytm Money are still available on the play store. The app is still available on Apple store.
PayTM app was removed within hours of Android Security and Privacy Vice President Product Suzanne Frey wrote in a blog, “We don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. It includes if app leads consumers to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes.”
She added, “And in the case where there are repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts. Our policies are applied and enforced on all developers consistently.”
Hours later, PayTM founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma said that the app had been restored and it was available on Google play store. He tweeted, “Thanks everyone for your support! Paytm App is back, live in Play Store. We launched a UPI CashBack campaign this morning. Our app got suspended by Google for this. India, you decide if giving cash back is gambling.”
Meanwhile, Twitterati have been posting hilarious memes in response to Google’s decision
#Paytm removed from PlayStore
Meanwhile China: pic.twitter.com/iHDDBATVPY
— Nishtha. (@moonaquette) September 18, 2020
Me who has 20₹ in my #Paytm wallet pic.twitter.com/eFAWsS0jAK
— Nobita (@Harami_Nobita) September 18, 2020
Thank you so much @GooglePlay for removing such fraud app @Paytm . I was working hard to take legal action against paytm. It will be good if paytm closed permanently. Lot of people facing fraudulent activities from paytm. Worst app. #paytmdowndown #paytm pic.twitter.com/6WyWjeIYC6
— Piyush (@tweet2piyushh) September 18, 2020
A SILENT DIGITAL STRIKE…!!!@Paytm has been taken down from playstore?#Paytm pic.twitter.com/394Zbs5blp
— Aashi Gupta??? (@Diversityyyyyy) September 18, 2020
#Paytm gone from play store pic.twitter.com/Y2MoNZpaiw
— Troll Mania (@TrollMania11) September 18, 2020