To remove rogue mobile applications (an unauthorized version of your mobile app) from third-party app marketplaces, you must file a notice under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Here’s how:
1
Confirm the marketplace listing is a direct download
Listings that redirect to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store are rarely removed. If the listing is a direct APK (Android) or IPA (iOS) download, you can go ahead and proceed to step 2.
2
Verify copyright ownership
A registered copyright is not required to benefit from copyright protection, however, mentioning ownership in your notice can expedite takedowns.
3
Locate the marketplace’s DMCA policy
DMCA details are typically in the marketplace website footer under labels like “DMCA Information” or “DMCA Copyright Infringement Notification.” Take note of submission requirements.
4
Collect evidence to support your takedown request
Gather the links to your legitimate apps on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Gather the infringing mobile app(s) links on the marketplace as well.
5
Write your DMCA takedown notice
Include any requirements from Step 3. Specify that your original works (i.e., legitimate apps) are available exclusively on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. For more about DMCA notices, see this guide from the Copyright Alliance.
6
Submit your request notice
The app marketplace’s DMCA policy will usually offer an email address for submissions (e.g., DMCA@App-marketplace-domain), an online form, or both.
7
Wait, follow up, and validate the removal
Multiple follow-ups may be required to get a response or for administrators to take action. If you don’t receive a response, consider submitting a DMCA notice to the web host and repeat Steps 3-6. Once you receive removal confirmation, validate that the infringing URL is no longer live.
8
Remain vigilant
Monitor third-party app marketplaces regularly. When you release a new mobile app version on the official app stores, alternative marketplaces may repost that new version. Additionally, they might publish multiple listings of your app, each using a different language. In each case, you can follow these same steps to have them taken down.
Removing rogue mobile apps (unauthorized versions of your mobile application) takes time and patience. Following the steps above can reduce the risk of your application users becoming victims of fraudulent activity.
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