In a recent development, Google Play has removed several popular social and live streaming apps from its Play Store, including Bigo and Tango. This move has raised questions regarding the platform’s stance on user-generated content (UGC) and its enforcement of CSAE (Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation) policies. Apps like Bigo, Tango, and others typically allow live interactions between users, which can sometimes lead to the spread of inappropriate content, making them more vulnerable to CASE policy breaches.
In order to show compliance with the new content and safety standards, developers of those apps are required to fill out the Children’s Safety Standard Declaration and submit other CSAE-related documentation to Google Play.
Filling Out the Children's Safety Standard Declaration
Here is a breakdown of the steps and requirements:
1. Provide a URL for "Safety Standards" Compliance
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Add a link to the CSAE compliance statement in your app’s Privacy Policy or Terms of Service.
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Ensure that the link is functional at all times and accessible to users in the app.
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Provide this link to Google Play via the Play Console when submitting or updating your app.
2. Incorporate a Child Content Reporting Mechanism
Developers must add an in-app feedback mechanism that allows users to report child safety concerns directly within the app. This mechanism is required to allow users (including parents or guardians) to report inappropriate content or behavior involving minors, including potential CSAE violations. Then, in your Google Play Console or app management center, you need to provide proof that the reporting feature has been integrated properly.
What Else Can Developers Do in Face of Google Play's Stricter Scrutiny?
After the initial removals on December 16, some top social and live streaming apps like Bigo, Tango, and LiveMe were reinstated, indicating that the developers either made necessary changes to meet the stringent standards or Google Play revised its approach. For instance, Tango returned soon after 7 days without any updates, as the app version remains the same as the day it was removed (#8.80.1732719153). Whereas, it took 2 weeks for Bigo’s developers to make adjustments to the app and submit an updated version (from #6.22.4 to #6.23.2) before being reinstated on December 20.
Here are some suggestions and practices for developers to cope with Google’s tighter app review policies, especially related to CSAE content and ensuring safe, continuous app operations:
1. Develop Internal Safety Guidelines
Establish comprehensive internal guidelines that specifically address CSAE issues. These guidelines will help internal teams identify, prevent, and address CSAE-related content, particularly within apps involving UGC or live streaming.
2. Streamline and Enable Easy Reporting Channels
Implement clear reporting mechanisms within the app that comply with local laws. Users should be able to report suspected CSAE content or other harmful behaviors easily without leaving the app.
3. Use Technology to Detect CSAE Content
Leverage automated technologies (e.g. hash matching, image classifier, keyword extraction tools) to scan content for CSAE, including images, videos, and text. This technology can help detect inappropriate or harmful content proactively.
4. Ongoing Monitoring and Updates
Regularly update the app’s policies and safety features to align with new legal requirements or changes in Google Play’s content guidelines. Ensure continuous monitoring of the app’s compliance.
5. Adopt Progressive Web Apps
While Google Play’s stricter policies are meant to protect users and create a safe online environment, the enforcement has put social and live streaming app developers under constant compliance pressure. Listing apps on the platform has become more difficult than ever as apps are being thoroughly scrutinized in the lengthy approval process. In this context, the Progressive Web App (PWA) solution offered by ROIBest emerges as an attractive alternative.
PWAs allow developers to bypass the complexities of traditional app stores, providing a seamless user experience directly through web browsers. With PWAs, there’s no need to worry about app store approvals, distribution fees, or platform restrictions. Developers can reach users on any device with a modern web browser, ensuring faster updates, improved accessibility, and greater flexibility. This approach not only eliminates the friction associated with app store listings but also positions developers to take full control of their app’s lifecycle while delivering a high-quality experience to users across multiple platforms.
About Us
ROIBest is a software service company headquartered in Singapore, pioneering in Android progressive web app (PWA) solutions. We provide Android developers with an innovative app distribution & advertising solution that does not depend on app stores, saves in-app purchase commissions, and eliminates harmful file warnings. Our feature-rich product supports AudienceCloud, traffic deduplication, and intelligent push notifications, enabling business success in global markets.
