Google refunds users who bought the 'fake' Virus Shield app

Google's Play Support division has sent out a personal message to users who purchased the Virus Shield app confirming that the app was fake app and that the users would be receiving a refund within the next 14 days. Additionally, the search giant is offering the users a $5 promotional credit as a token of apology.

The message says, "This app made the false claim that it provided one-click virus protection; in reality, it did not. Google Play's policies strictly prohibit false claims like these."

We had earlier reported that the $3.99 anti-virus app that claimed it could prevent harmful apps from being installed; scanning apps, settings, files and media, and protecting your personal information. Except... it didn't do anything.

Many experts say that anti-virus software does nothing but provide the illusion of safety, and the Virus Shield developers clearly took that to heart - users who analysed the source code of the app learned that all it did was change an icon to tell you that your phone was insecure, but is now protected. The details are available on GitHub.

Google Play is infamous for being a breeding ground for fake apps and in that light, this development is highly encouraging. However, this malware menace needs to stop as soon as possible.

Here's the email sent by Google reproduced in full (via Android Police):

Hello,

We're reaching out to you because you recently purchased the "Virus Shield" app on Google Play.

This app made the false claim that it provided one-click virus protection; in reality, it did not.

Google Play's policies strictly prohibit false claims like these, and in light of this, we're refunding you for your "Virus Shield" purchase. You should see funds returned to your account within the next 14 days.

Additionally we'd like to offer you $5 promotional credit, which can be used to purchase digital content on Google Play such as apps, games, books, music and movies.

Your credit redemption code is XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. Click or tap here to redeem. For help redeeming, please visit our Help Center.

We're sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused; rest assured that we're always working to make Google Play better for our users.

Thank you,

Google Play Support