Google Play removes Cheetah Mobile-backed apps for ad fraud

Google has removed two popular Chinese apps from its Play Store, including one run by Beijing-based internet company Cheetah Mobile.

The firm’s document management app CM File Manager (in Chinese), according to Google’s internal investigation, was removed for allowing click flooding.

Also known as click spamming, the technique allows fraudsters to use an app to steal users and attribute the installation to itself. If a user clicks a link but doesn’t intend to download an app, the click could be redirected to another app or malicious download. Reward fees will then be paid to partners who assisted in generating fake user traffic and downloads. The accusations were first published by Buzzfeed News.

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