Is Google Play Store safe to use?

Safe

Yes, it's the safest place to get Android apps, but malicious apps still slip through, so check before you install.

Checked October 2026

Quick facts

Owned by: Google (Alphabet)
Based in: Mountain View, USA
Encryption: Encrypted in transit.
Data it collects: Apps you install, purchases and device information linked to your Google account.
Minimum age: Parental controls available

What keeps you safe

Google Play Protect scans apps on your phone.
Data safety labels show what apps collect.
Family Link and parental controls.

Risks to know about

Banking trojans and adware disguised as useful apps keep getting through review.
Fake versions of popular apps copy real names and icons.

Scams to watch for on Google Play Store

Fake loan, VPN and crypto apps that steal data.
Apps promising free subscriptions or game currency.

Is Google Play Store legit?

Google Play is Google's official app store.

Is it safe for kids?

Set up Family Link and require approval for purchases.

How to use Google Play Store safely

Check the developer name and number of downloads.
Read the Data safety section before installing.
Keep Play Protect switched on.

Where Google Play Store is restricted

Does a VPN make Google Play Store safer?

Partly. A VPN hides your IP address and protects you on public Wi-Fi. It can't stop Google Play Store collecting data or scammers messaging you.

Picked for privacy and getting messages through.

Proton VPN

Swiss-based with open-source apps and a free tier, plus a Stealth protocol for restrictive networks.

For strict networks: the Stealth protocol.

Try Proton VPN

Private Internet Access

Open-source apps, unlimited devices and servers in every US state, at a low price.

For strict networks: the Shadowsocks proxy option.

Try Private Internet Access

ExpressVPN

Obfuscation is switched on automatically on every server, so there is no special mode to find.

For strict networks: automatic obfuscation (with the protocol on Automatic).

Try ExpressVPN

Not sure about these three? See 3 more VPNs NordVPN, Surfshark and CyberGhost

NordVPN

Largest network of the six, with the NordWhisper protocol for networks that inspect traffic.

For strict networks: NordWhisper or obfuscated servers.

Try NordVPN

Surfshark

Unlimited devices on one plan, with NoBorders mode that switches on in restrictive regions.

For strict networks: NoBorders mode.

Try Surfshark

CyberGhost

Servers labelled for specific streaming services and a 45-day refund window on longer plans.

For strict networks: a nearby server (CyberGhost has no stealth mode).

Try CyberGhost

We earn a commission if you buy a VPN through our links. It never changes what we report as blocked. How we pick and how we make money

Questions people ask

Is Google Play Store safe to use?

Yes, it's the safest place to get Android apps, but malicious apps still slip through, so check before you install.

Is Google Play Store legit?

Google Play is Google's official app store.

Is Google Play Store encrypted?

Encrypted in transit.

What data does Google Play Store collect?

Apps you install, purchases and device information linked to your Google account.

Is Google Play Store safe for kids?

Set up Family Link and require approval for purchases.

Does a VPN make Google Play Store safer?

Partly. A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts traffic on public Wi-Fi, so your network and ISP can't see what you do on Google Play Store. It does not stop Google Play Store itself from collecting data, and it does not protect you from scams inside the app.

Sources

Google privacy policy