Proxy SDK compliance.Non-compliant SDK risks,Google Play SDK policy and ,SDK compliance for developers
Recently, a well-known proxy service provider was hit with severe enforcement action by Google for long-term noncompliance with its SDK terms. Google imposed a comprehensive ban on the provider’s related SDKs, and a large number of applications embedding the non-compliant SDKs were simultaneously removed from app stores. A compliance storm sweeping across developers and the proxy service industry has officially begun.
Google released an official statement at the earliest opportunity, clearly outlining the core violations involved. The SDK in question was not an independent application; instead, it was covertly embedded into various mobile and desktop applications. Without obtaining any explicit user consent, the SDK unlawfully invoked device permissions, collected user information, and forcibly connected user devices to the provider’s proxy network. This effectively misappropriated user resources and constituted a serious violation of personal data protection laws and the compliance requirements of major global app marketplaces, while also breaching the fundamental responsibilities that SDK operators are required to uphold.
▌Ripple Effects: Developers Face Mass Takedowns and Severe Consequences
As of now, hundreds of applications containing the non-compliant SDK have been automatically flagged by Google Play Protect and forcibly removed. Affected developers span multiple sectors, including cross-border services, utility tools, and social applications.
Beyond app takedowns, some developer accounts have been permanently banned, instantly wiping out years of accumulated users, revenue channels, and industry credibility. What may appear to be a shortcut to short-term gains ultimately pushed developers onto a regulatory “high-voltage line.”
This incident once again demonstrates a hard truth: under increasingly strict global regulation, any attempt to bypass compliance will eventually result in heavy and irreversible costs.
▌Red Line Warning: Three Core SDK Compliance Principles That Cannot Be Crossed
With regulators such as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and platforms like Google continuously strengthening enforcement, SDK compliance is no longer optional—it has become a matter of survival for both developers and proxy service providers. The following three principles represent absolute red lines:
- Transparency Principle: No Hidden Functions or Purposes
Both proxy providers and developers must clearly disclose SDK functionality, data collection boundaries, and network access permissions. Any form of hidden behavior is unacceptable. Providers must proactively explain the core purpose of their SDKs, while developers must rigorously review compliance details to ensure users’ right to be informed.
- User Authorization Principle: Explicit Consent for Every Action
Any data collection, proxy routing, or permission invocation without explicit user authorization constitutes a violation. Proxy providers must implement standardized consent mechanisms within their SDKs and retain authorization records. Developers must ensure that integrated SDKs do not bypass or obscure consent workflows—this is a fundamental prerequisite for passing app store reviews.
- Long-Term Development Principle: Reject Short-Term Profit Traps
Gray monetization models such as “pay-per-install” or forced bundling must be abandoned. Proxy service providers should focus on compliant technology development, while developers must prioritize sustainable growth by choosing SDK services that enable both compliance and long-term profitability.
▌Compliance Benchmarks: Three Standards for Proxy SDK Development
This incident has also clarified the defining standards of compliant SDKs and pointed the direction for industry transformation. A compliant proxy SDK must meet the following criteria:
Compliance and Traceability
The SDK must fully align with the review standards of major platforms such as Google Play, Apple App Store, and Huawei AppGallery. A complete compliance traceability system should be established, integrated with national SDK management platforms, and subject to regulatory oversight to eliminate risks at the source.
Low-Barrier Integration and Cross-Platform Compatibility
SDK architecture should be optimized to support Android, Windows, iOS, WebOS, and other mainstream operating systems. Integration processes should be simplified and supported by professional technical assistance, ensuring lightweight performance without compromising application stability.
Sustainable Monetization Under Compliance
The false dichotomy between compliance and profitability must be broken. By offering legitimate services such as lawful overseas network access and compliant cross-border data transmission, SDKs can enhance application competitiveness while enabling mutually beneficial, compliant business models for both providers and developers.
▌Breaking the Deadlock: Four Action Guidelines for Proxy Providers
In light of recent regulatory trends, proxy service providers must take decisive steps toward sustainable development:
First, strengthen accountability through comprehensive self-audits. Providers should rigorously assess their SDK products against data protection and cybersecurity laws, halt the development and promotion of non-compliant offerings, clean up gray partnerships, and actively cooperate with regulatory enforcement actions.
Second, accelerate technical transformation and invest in compliance-focused R&D. By increasing investment in compliant technologies and establishing end-to-end compliance controls across development, testing, deployment, and maintenance, providers can ensure every operation is traceable and auditable—building differentiated compliance advantages.
Third, enhance service systems to empower developer compliance. Providers should deliver end-to-end services including compliance consulting, integration guidance, and security audits, while proactively publishing compliance documentation and security reports to reduce developers’ regulatory burdens and risks.
Fourth, promote industry self-regulation and a healthy ecosystem. Active participation in industry standards initiatives, SDK accreditation programs, and peer collaboration is essential. Exposing non-compliant practices and reinforcing a “compliance-first” mindset will help eliminate destructive competition and drive the industry toward standardized, high-quality growth.
To address the long-standing dilemma between monetization and compliance faced by developers, a growing number of service providers with strong technical foundations and compliance awareness have begun offering developer-focused, compliant SDK solutions. IPFLY is a representative example.
Leveraging years of technical expertise and compliant operations, IPFLY’s SDK services strictly adhere to the principles of transparency, security, and control. All functionalities and permissions are fully disclosed, with no hidden behavior. The SDK supports comprehensive multi-platform integration, improving integration efficiency by over 60%, backed by a 24/7 professional technical support team providing one-on-one assistance throughout the process. By rejecting short-term profit incentives and focusing on compliant proxy and data security services—such as legally enabling overseas network access—IPFLY helps developers achieve stable, long-term monetization while enhancing application competitiveness.
Every developer’s hard work deserves respect, and every high-quality application should not be buried due to non-compliant SDKs. Choosing a compliant and reliable SDK service provider is a critical step for developers seeking sustainable, long-term success.
