Lesson 101: it is prudent to do in-depth scrutiny of reviews before downloading any app from Google Play Store because the service is apparently teeming with data-stealers masquerading as legit apps. Google calls these scums as zombie apps and intends to write them off Play Store.

The Next Web revealed a series of letter that Google sent to developers about their apps that lacks privacy policy. Google stressed the need for clear privacy policy and users should know where their data goes. More so for apps that ask for sensitive information like bank details and digital accounts.

The same report also said that some developers may be legitimate but the problem of unsecured privacy stemmed from hastily publishing their apps and subsequently forgetting them due to lack of downloaders. Other accounts ask for subtle access like smartphone account, contacts or pone access. Even camera and microphone access might also pose privacy concern in some rare cases where recordings are automatically uploaded.

Greenbot disclosed that Google Play Store sternly said that there is a guideline in place for apps that collects and transmits data. All data should be related to functionality of the app and should highlight how the user data should be used.

It is unclear how many apps are affected by Google's call but sources revealed that it could be millions. Developers were given up to March 15 to comply and those who will fail might face removal from Play Store. Google is also going to implement a sliding scale policy where apps that has "minor" violations will simply suffer less visibility and not total removal.

To recall, users and security experts have long complained about lax policy and rules against zombie apps. Play Store is also peppered with tons of disputes and questions but the company shied away from the issue for sometime. At any rate, this renewed vigor about privacy standpoint and consumer protection is a nice way to clean the littered Google service.