Apple fired five employees who worked at the Chinese version of the App Store for ``having illegal transactions with game developers''

Apple has reportedly fired multiple employees involved in operating the Chinese version of the App Store for engaging in fraudulent interactions with game developers. According to reports, fired employees received meals and entertainment from game developers, and some apps were displayed unnaturally prominently, leading to an increase in sales.

Apple Fired App Store Staff After Finding Improper Deals with Game Developers — The Information
https://www.theinformation.com/articles/apple-fired-app-store-staff-after-finding-improper-dealings-with-game-developers

Apple reportedly fired App Store workers over improper business practices | iMore
https://www.imore.com/apple/apple-reportedly-fired-app-store-workers-over-improper-business-practices

According to reports, an internal audit conducted from 2022 to mid-2023 found that at least six employees of the Chinese App Store division engaged in fraudulent transactions with game developers. thing.

The employees in question were said to be involved in helping game developers receive approval from the App Store and helping increase revenue. The study found that despite strict guidelines in place for employees to communicate with app developers, some of the fired instructors still engaged in 'unauthorized communication with game developers and their consultants.' He reportedly made contact with the suspects, including buying them meals and inviting them to nightclubs.

According to reports, some apps created by developers who had fraudulent contact with employees have become unnaturally prominent and have increased sales. However, although certain apps may be displayed prominently on the Chinese version of the App Store, it seems that this does not affect Apple's app approval process.

Needless to say, ignoring the guidelines and reaching out to developers or giving their apps special treatment is strictly against Apple's App Store policies. As a result of an internal audit, five of the employees in question were dismissed.

The internal audit report states, 'Employees who review or edit apps are not allowed to meet with developers without prior approval. Additionally, employees who manage the developer's business are not allowed to 'They may have contact with the public, but they are not allowed to receive expensive gifts or meals,' it reportedly read.