Google corrects unfortunate ‘Stalkerware’ typo allowing partner-tracking apps

Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge

Google is correcting a “typo” in its Play Store “stalkerware” policy that currently suggests that apps can be used to track spouses. Stalkerware and other tracking software is dangerous, campaigners say, because it can facilitate domestic abuse and harassment of partners. As it’s written, the policy also mistakenly says parents cannot track their children.

The updated developer policy, which comes into effect on October 1st, now explicitly says that Play Store apps which allow parents to track their children are acceptable, but that they cannot be used to track adults (like a spouse) without their knowledge or permission.

Here’s the relevant section from the current developer policy which is due to be corrected (emphasis added):

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