Unfortunately, the reason for the short absence remains unclear. New users can download the app on Android phones by just typing WhatsApp on the search box of Google Play Store. The spokesperson explained that these illegal apps have a “predatory lending” behaviour, where they blackmail and harass borrowers and breach their data privacy, which are liable for action under the Prevention of Electronic Crime Act, 2016 and the Anti Money Laundering Act, 2010.Īs per the rules, a digital lender will be authorised to operate in the country if it has obtained a license and approval from SECP and certification from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).įurthermore, the apps are not allowed to access a borrower’s phone book, contact list or photo gallery, even if the borrower has given consent.Facebook-owned WhatsApp on Saturday confirmed that the app was now back on the Google Play store after its sudden disappearance. Google has agreed to initiate a review of its policies to limit its platforms to licensed entities.” “In January and February, 75 unauthorised apps were reported to Google and Apple for removal from their app stores. “In order to control the menace of illegal lending apps, SECP has liaised with local regulators such as PTA, FIA, and SBP besides Google and Apple,” Jabeen added. The commission has identified 75 online apps that are scams including Asaan Qarza, which the SECP is hoping to crack down on. “Apps not included in the list are illegal,” Musarat Jabeen, the chief spokesperson of the SECP, told Geo Fact Check via email, “Public is advised not to deal with illegal apps.”

These apps are registered with SECP as non-banking financial companies, under the Companies Act, 1956. The financial regulatory authority told Geo Fact Check that only 10 micro-credit apps are legit which include Finja, Muawin, Credit Per, Easy PK Loan, Zoodpay & ZoodMall, Qisstpay CreditCat RazCash, Abhi, Barwaqt, Udhar-Paisa and Zaroorat Cash. Once these applications are downloaded, they get access to the personal data of the user.

Those who download these apps give access to their phone data including their picture gallery and contact list. These applications claim to offer people easy loans at low-interest rates.

Whatsapp on play store