Disclaimer: Policy summaries and Key Considerations are overviews only; always refer to the full policy for compliance. The full policy takes precedence in case of conflict.
Developers must not attempt to manipulate the placement of any apps on Google Play. This includes, but is not limited to, inflating product ratings, reviews, or install counts by illegitimate means, such as fraudulent or incentivized reviews and ratings, or incentivizing users to install other apps as the app’s main functionality.
Examples of common violations in ratings and reviews
-
Asking users to rate your app while offering an incentive:
① This notification offers users a discount in exchange for a high rating.
- Repeatedly submitting ratings posing as users to influence an app’s placement on Google Play.
-
Submitting or encouraging users to submit reviews containing inappropriate content, including affiliates, coupons, game codes, email addresses, or links to websites or other apps:
② This review encourages users to promote the RescueRover app by making a coupon offer.
Ratings and reviews are benchmarks of app quality. Users depend on them to be authentic and relevant. Here are some best practices when responding to user reviews:
- Keep your reply focused on the issues raised in the user's comments and don’t ask for a higher rating.
- Include references to helpful resources such as a support address or FAQ page.
| Do | Don't |
| Earn positive ratings and reviews with an excellent user experience. | Don't offer rewards or incentives for ratings or reviews. |
| Prompt users to leave a rating in a clear, non-deceptive way. | Don't use deceptive pop-ups or force users to rate your app. |
| Encourage honest feedback and engage with your community. | Don't use automated services to inflate installs or ratings. |
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