Why Modi government ordered Google to remove several Firebase accounts
What's the story
The Indian government has ordered tech giant Google to remove hundreds of accounts from its Firebase platform. The move comes after officials discovered that fraudsters were using the service to impersonate major banks, spread malware, and steal financial information. The crackdown highlights growing concerns over cyber fraud as criminals exploit widely used digital tools to target India's expanding online payments ecosystem.
Scam prevalence
Scammers using Google's Firebase for online fraud
Online scams have emerged as a major challenge for law enforcement in India, with nearly $2.4 billion lost to alleged cyber fraud in 2025.
The government has been combating these scams by ordering the removal of their websites.
However, a recent pattern has emerged where scammers are using Google's Firebase app and website development tool to perpetrate these frauds.
I4C's directive
I4C orders takedown of websites hosted on Firebase
The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has ordered the takedown of at least 57 websites and databases hosted on Firebase in August alone.
These sites were found to be distributing malware and stealing sensitive financial information from victims' phones.
The I4C also warned that Android-based malware programs are masquerading as legitimate banking services, specifically targeting Android users with credit cards.
Company statement
Google responds to cyber fraud issue on its platform
In response to the growing issue of cyber fraud on its platform, Google has reiterated its commitment to maintaining strict policies against phishing, malware, or financial fraud.
The company said it works with law enforcement agencies like I4C to assess and act on notices regarding such fraudulent activities.
However, if Google does not take down the reported links within three hours of notice issuance, it could be held liable for any resulting harm.
Platform misuse
Rise of online scams in India
Firebase, a Google platform used by millions of developers worldwide to build apps and host websites, has been increasingly misused by scammers.
The Indian government has noted that these fraudsters have been migrating to Firebase from other free tools since last year, drawn by its generous free options and more capable database features.
This shift has further fueled the rise of online scams targeting India's growing digital payments ecosystem.