Paytm, Paytm First Games apps removed from Google Play Store

In a surprise move, Google on Friday pulled the Paytm and Paytm First Games apps from Google Play store. Both the apps are no more listed on the Google Play Store. If you open the app page it shows an error too. The other apps from Paytm like Paytm Money are still available on the Play Store. 

Google claims that it won't allow any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. While this feature is not available on the main Paytm app, Paytm First Games allowed fantasy gamers to make their teams and compete with each other. 

Notably, the ban comes just days after Paytm First Games had roped in former Indian cricket team batsman Sachin Tendulkar as their brand ambassador.

Zee Business Online has reached out to Paytm to understand the reason behind this removal but is yet to hear from them. 

Official Google statement 

"We don’t allow online casinos/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/cash prizes." 

The removal happened hours after Google’s Suzanne Frey, who is Vice President, Product, Android Security and Privacy, detailed certain guidelines in a blog post. 

“We have these policies to protect users from potential harm. 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. Our policies are applied and enforced on all developers consistently,” she wrote. 

Google has strict policies when it comes to fantasy gaming platforms. Even the homegrown Dream11, which happens to be the title sponsor for next season of Indian Premier League, is not listed on the Google Play Store.

What happens to money in your Paytm account?

The platform has assured its customers that their money is safe, calling it a temporary move.

"Dear Paytm'ers, 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," it said.