Mitron app removed from Google Play Store for policy violation; privacy issue flagged

Google has removed Mitron app, a much-touted Indian alternative to TikTok, from its Play Store for reportedly violating its ‘spam and minimum functionality' policy. Mitron app emerged from where and crossed 5 million downloads within a month of its launch on Play Store but, later, reports emerged that app owner bought source code from a Pakistani company Qboxus and rebranded it as Mitron. 

Why did Google Play Store remove Mitron?

According to Google’s policy, copying content from or applications without any changes to original source code or value addition is a violation. It also states that creating multiple apps with highly similar functionality, content, and user experience violated it ‘spam and minimum functionality’ policy.

“We don't allow apps that merely provide same experience as or apps already on Google Play. Apps should provide value to users through creation of unique content or services,” policy reads.

Origin of Mitron

IIT Roorkee student Shivank Agarwal purchased source code of an app called TicTic, which resembles TikTok, from a Pakistan-based software company Qboxus for $34. Agarwal rebranded app as Mitron and, according to Qboxus founder Irfan Sheikh, buyer didn’t take any effort to make changes or improvements to app.

Pakistani company has also claimed that app had privacy issues since app owner did t upload privacy policy. Ar serious issue with Mitron is that a user cant delete his/her account from it and can only log out or uninstall it. settings menu was also missing from last version of app present on Play Store.

According to a cybersecurity expert, it isn't safe to use Mitron app in its current form. This is mainly because app does t come with any additional firewall or software security above source code. privacy policy of app is weak that may likely put a user's data and security at risk.

Read: Mitron Vs TikTok: Mitron App With 4.8-star Rating Competes With TikTok

Read: Mitron App Crosses 50 Lakh Downloads, Rivals TikTok On India's Google Play Store