Google Decides to Shut Down the Google Play Security Reward Program by the End of September Due to Fewer Bug Submissions

The Google Play Security Reward Program (GPSPR) is a safety incentive scheme specifically launched for the Google Play Store. This initiative allowed security researchers to study the store to identify potential security vulnerabilities. Upon submitting these findings to Google, the company would provide cash rewards at varying levels based on the severity of the vulnerability.

Google recently notified security researchers via email that the GPSPR program is coming to an end. The program will officially close on August 31, with reports submitted thereafter being classified by September 15. The final vulnerability rewards will be distributed by September 30.

The program's ultimate shutdown is also set for September 30, after which security researchers will no longer be able to submit vulnerabilities through the GPSPR program. However, researchers can continue to participate in the security reward programs for Android and Google devices.

Google places a high emphasis on security, which is why it offers a variety of different security reward programs. So, why close the GPSPR program now? The reason is straightforward: there are increasingly fewer vulnerabilities being submitted.

The company has noted that, due to overall improvements in the security posture and functionality of the Android operating system, there are fewer actionable vulnerabilities being reported by the security research community. It is for this reason that Google has decided to gradually phase out the GPSPR program.

Google assures that it will process and continue to evaluate cash rewards for vulnerabilities reported by researchers until the official end of the program. Here is the specific timeline:

Preliminary Shutdown Date: August 31, 2024

Vulnerability Submission Deadline: August 31, 2024

Vulnerability Confirmation Deadline: By September 15, 2024

Reward Distribution Deadline: By September 30, 2024

Final Shutdown Date: September 30, 2024