Google is developing malware scanner technology for Google Play, according to Android Police, which discovered the supporting code in a teardown of a new Android application package (.APK) file.

The first element of the technology is an ‘App Check’ which allows Google to inspect every app that users have already downloaded. This is complemented by an app blocker function, which warns users before an app has been installed.

The code suggests there will be an option to turn this off, allowing users to download apps without potential malware being flagged.