14-8-2025 – Google Play Store has introduced stricter regulations for crypto exchanges and wallets, mandating compliance with local laws in select jurisdictions to enhance consumer protection and curb scams. The policy, announced today, requires apps in regions like the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union to meet specific licensing requirements.
In the U.S., crypto apps must register with FinCEN as Money Service Businesses and with states as money transmitters. In the U.K., registration with the Financial Conduct Authority is mandatory, while EU-based apps must comply with the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations and local requirements. Other affected nations include Thailand, UAE, Switzerland, South Korea, Philippines, Japan, Israel, Indonesia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Canada, and Bahrain. Jurisdictions without specific crypto regulations are exempt, allowing broader app publication.
The move addresses rising concerns over phishing scams on the platform, with cybercriminals impersonating DeFi protocols like PancakeSwap and SushiSwap, as reported by cybersecurity experts. Google’s prior efforts, including legal action, have aimed to mitigate such fraud, but the new policy seeks to strengthen safeguards amid growing institutional adoption of digital assets. Crypto app developers in regulated markets will need to secure licenses to maintain or gain access to Google Play Store’s vast user base, a key driver of web3 adoption.
