Google Play unauthorized Use or Imitation of System Functionality policy: fixes and checks
By The Draftbit team · Updated
Sources checked
This guide is for Apps or ads that resemble Android notifications, warnings, or system controls.
Google prohibits apps and ads that imitate or interfere with system functionality. A fake security alert can violate this policy even when tapping it only opens a promotion.
What to check
Review warning dialogs, notification styling, full-screen prompts, and advertisements. Can users distinguish your app’s message from an Android system message?
System notifications should serve an integral app feature. The policy gives examples such as an airline’s own special offers or a game’s own promotions; it doesn’t authorize serving third-party ads through system alerts.
How to address the rejection
Remove fake system warnings and ad delivery through system notifications. Brand legitimate app messages clearly and avoid blocking or suppressing real operating-system alerts.
Test notifications with the app closed and inspect ads from live provider configurations using their test tools. Explain which notification or screen caused the issue and how its content, origin, or delivery changed. Changing only its color may leave the misleading system impression intact.
Messages this guide can help with
Unauthorized Use or Imitation of System Functionality; Unauthorized Use or Imitation of System Functionality policy violation; Unauthorized Use or Imitation of System Functionality rejection; Unauthorized Use or Imitation of System Functionality denied
Official sources
We checked these instructions against the sources below. The console layout may change, and your review decision may call for different steps.
- Google Play: Unauthorized Use or Imitation of System Functionality Checked 22 September 2026