Google suspends popular Chinese shopping app Pinduoduo over malware issues

Pinduoduo, a popular Chinese shopping app, has been suspended by Alphabet Inc's Google due to the reported emergence of malware in versions of the app, which triggered security concerns.

A Google spokesperson said on Tuesday (March 21) that the versions of PDD Holdings Inc's Pinduoduo app was suspended in the aftermath of malware issues.

In a statement, the Google spokesperson said, "The Off-Play versions of the e-commerce app that have been found to contain malware have been enforced on via Google Play Protect." It noted that the investigation will be continued.

Add WION as a Preferred Source

Google Play Protect helps to keep the apps safe and data private. It also works on preventing the installation of malicious apps after scanning apps on Android phones.

"Google Play Protect enforcement has been set to block installation attempts of these identified malicious apps. Users that have malicious versions of the app downloaded to their devices are warned and prompted to uninstall the app," the spokesperson said.

WATCH |Ferrari hit by ransomware attack, customer details compromised

Pinduoduo 'strongly' rejects claims

Pinduoduo responded to the suspension as it said, "We strongly reject the speculation and accusation that Pinduoduo app is malicious just from a generic and non-conclusive response from Google."

A Pinduoduo spokesperson said that "Google Play has informed us this morning that Pinduoduo APP, among several other apps, has been temporarily suspended as the current version is not compliant with Google’s Policy, but has not shared more details".

"We are communicating with Google for more information. We have been told that there are several other apps that have been suspended as well," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.