Google Play Termination Explained: Top High-Risk Behaviors Explained

For Google developers, the last thing anyone wants to see is an account termination email. This disrupts both the initial investment and later app releases. Sometimes, even if it feels like no violations were made, Google may still classify the account as engaging in “high-risk behavior.” So, what actually causes this? This article breaks it down for you.

I. Main Reasons for Account Termination

1、Malware and Misconduct
Apps containing trojans, spyware, or unauthorized data collection, as well as non-compliant third-party SDKs (especially those linked to ad fraud or privacy leaks).

2、Deception and Policy Breaches
When app descriptions do not match actual functionality, hidden features exist, or app promotion/advertising involves deceptive or prohibited practices.

3、Policy Violations
Unauthorized use of trademarks or copyrighted content, publishing highly sensitive apps (e.g., lending, healthcare) without proper licenses, or other serious breaches of Google’s Developer Policy.

4、Linked Account Issues
Using the same payment method, device, or source code as previously banned accounts will be flagged as high-risk and lead to immediate termination.

5、Traffic and Market Manipulation
Engaging in fake installs, fraudulent reviews, rating manipulation, or publishing mass-cloned apps to exploit system loopholes.

II. How to Avoid Termination

1、Ensure Code Compliance Before Publishing
Scan apps to confirm no malicious logic exists. Keep permission requests minimal and clearly state usage in the privacy policy. Only integrate SDKs from legitimate sources, and document SDK versions and sources for audits.

2、Maintain Account Isolation
Use separate corporate details, payment methods, and developer profiles. Do not reuse the same information across accounts. Avoid sharing the same IP between accounts or using low-quality IP addresses. Consider using IPFoxy's static proxy to isolate environments and increase approval success rates.

3、Application Information Transparency
Your app description, screenshots, and feature details must accurately reflect the actual product. Misleading promotions, incentivized downloads, or any form of traffic manipulation are strictly prohibited. Ads and in-app purchases should fully comply with Google’s policies, ensuring clarity and transparent pricing.

Completely avoiding account termination is challenging, so it’s recommended to stay updated on the latest Google Play developer guidelines to prevent accidental violations. You can also refer to the mind map below to identify overlooked compliance risks. Even if your account encounters issues once, this awareness will help you better navigate future app submissions and minimize the chances of escalating risks.

III. What to Do If Your Account Is Terminated

If termination happens, keep the following in mind to avoid further issues:

1、Check Emails Promptly
Always review Google’s enforcement email immediately. It explains the basic reason for termination (though sometimes vaguely).

2、Stop Publishing Activities
Do not create new accounts or upload the same app with the same details during the appeal process. Google may treat this as an attempt to bypass enforcement, leading to further account linkage and permanent bans.

3、Address Linked Account Problems
If Google cites “linked account violations,” review and separate related accounts (e.g., update payment or company information). Be cautious: deliberately creating new accounts to evade penalties is against Google’s policies and can result in permanent suspension.

IV. Conclusion

As Google’s review system becomes increasingly strict, developers must stay updated on policy changes. Only by knowing the red lines can you increase the success rate of app submissions. Even if your account faces issues once, careful review of potential overlooked risks can help avoid bigger problems in the future.