Google Play removes Paytm app and Paytm First Games from Play Store

Google has removed UPI based payments app Paytm and fantasy sports app Paytm First Games from its Play Store on Friday. Other apps like Paytm Mall, Paytm Money and Paytm For Business are still appearing on the platform.

In a Twitter post, the company informed users, “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.”

Speculative media reports claim that Paytm and Paytm First Games is in violation of Google's gambling policies. Incidentally, Google India posted a new blog on 18 September titled ‘Understanding our Play gambling policies in India’ which mentions ‘We don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads consumer 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.’

In addition, the blog post says, ‘When an app violates these policies, we notify the developer of the violation and remove the app from Google Play until the developer brings the app into compliance. And in the case where there are repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts.’

Speculative media reports claim that Paytm and Paytm First Games is in violation of Google's gambling policies.