Apple store fraud numbers show Apple prevented over $1.6 million risky and untrustworthy apps and app updates from defrauding users throughout 2021, the company said in a post to its corporate blog. That number is up from $1.5 million in 2020.
“Apple’s efforts to prevent and reduce fraud on the App Store require continuous monitoring and vigilance across multiple teams”, the blog said. “From App Review to Discovery Fraud, Apple’s ongoing commitment to protect users from fraudulent app activity demonstrates once again why independent, respected security experts have said the App Store is the safest place to find and download apps.”
During 2021, the App Store fraud team:
- Rejected 500,000+ apps
- Banned nearly 600,000 App Store accounts
- Terminated over 800,000 developer accounts
Apple also outlined its review process, stating that it uses a combination of automation and human fraud analyst review. The tools it uses are proprietary, using machine learning to analyze historic data dating back to the beginning of the App Store.
“The App Review process is multilayered, and combines computer automation with manual human review. App Review uses proprietary tools that leverage machine learning, heuristics, and data accumulated since the App Store first launched, which helps to quickly extract large volumes of information about an app’s potential issues and violations”, the blog said.
“Human review is the distinguishing component of the App Review process. The App Review team reviews every app and every update to ensure they follow the App Store’s guidelines related to privacy, security, and spam. This process serves as a critical line of defense to help protect users from bad actors.”
