Apple confirms ‘Report a Problem’ option that lets users report App Store scams

Earlier this week, App Store users noticed that Apple had quietly started rolling out a new option that allows them report a scammy app from its listing in the App Store. Now, Apple has officially confirmed that the ‘Report a Problem’ link is available for users in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States. The company plans to expand the feature, which is rolling out on iOS 15, iPadOS 15, and macOS Monterey,  to other regions over time. 

Apple also said users worldwide can now choose from “Report a scam or fraud” and “Report offensive, abusive, or illegal content” options at reportaproblem.apple.com, and report issues with their apps, including free apps that do not offer in-app purchases. 

When you submit a report on the App Store or on the web, Apple says its teams will initiate an investigation for signs of fraud, manipülation, abuse, and other violations of the App Store Review Guidelines, and work with developers to resolve issues.

If the investigation team suspects a reported developer has engaged in purposeful manipulation, fraud, or abuse, Apple says it could result in the app being removed from the App Store.

Apple also announced on Wednesday that starting with app submissions on January 31, 2022, it will require developers who offer a way to create accounts in their apps to also provide a way to delete them from within the app. 

“We encourage you to review any laws that may require you to maintain certain types of data, and to make sure your app clearly explains what data your app collects, how it collects that data, all uses of that data, your data retention/deletion policies, and more as described in the guideline. Examples of this type of data include electronic health records, and sales and warranty records. “ the company wrote in a blog post.