Google has taken a stand against crypto fraudsters who have tarnished its reputation by engaging in deceptive practices. The tech giant has initiated legal proceedings against two individuals accused of compromising the integrity of its platforms.
Google's Allegations Against Crypto Scammers
According to Google, the scammers exploited Google Play by infiltrating the platform with 87 counterfeit crypto apps, deceiving more than 100,000 users. The company disclosed that it incurred expenses exceeding $75,000 during the investigation of the fraudulent activities.
Legal Action Against Scammers
The Alphabet-owned corporation filed a civil lawsuit in a New York federal court, targeting the two perpetrators responsible for the illicit activities. The lawsuit asserts that the scammers misrepresented themselves to Google Play, falsely presenting their apps as legitimate cryptocurrency exchanges and investment platforms.
Modus Operandi of the Scammers
The scammers, hailing from Shenzhen, China, and Hong Kong, manipulated Google by repeatedly submitting fraudulent apps for approval on Google Play. Despite Google's efforts to identify and remove the malicious apps, the scammers persistently circumvented the safeguards, resulting in the proliferation of 87 fake crypto apps.
Impact on Google and Users
Not only did the fraudsters exploit unsuspecting users, but they also inflicted financial losses and operational strain on Google. The company emphasizes that the fraudulent activities compromised the trust and confidence of Google users in its services and platforms.
Google's Response and Commitment
A spokesperson for Google reiterated the company's dedication to combating fraud and ensuring a secure online environment. Google's general counsel, Halimah DeLaine Prado, emphasized that the legal action signifies their unwavering stance against those seeking to exploit users through deceptive practices.
Google's proactive approach to addressing cryptocurrency scams underscores its commitment to safeguarding its users and upholding the integrity of its platforms.
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By: ggoodwin@businessinsider.com (Grace Eliza Goodwin)
Title: Google Takes Legal Action Against Crypto Scammers for Threatening Platform Integrity
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/google-accused-crypto-fraudsters-of-hurting-integrity-company-2024-4
Published Date: Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:50:30 +0000
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