‘Fortnite’ Android News & Update: Google Play Store Rejection Means Increased Malware Risk for Players

“Fortnite” Android is currently out as an exclusive beta for Samsung Galaxy devices, and the feedback to the game itself has been mostly positive, so far. However, there are concerns that Epic Game’s decision to not put the app on Google’s Play Store could increase the probability of malware infection for many players. Younger users could be particularly susceptible if they download from the wrong source.

The exclusive beta deal that Samsung has to host “Fortnite” Android on its devices is set to last until at least Monday next week, CNET reports. Since its release on Thursday, however, it would seem that the reception for the game has been mostly positive. The cross-play element has been maintained well, which means that items on PC and iOS devices can still be found in this version.

However, installing “Fortnite” Android does involve a few extra steps that are making some security experts concerned. The Play Store was already considered one of the safest platforms to download mobile titles, but it can still miss software that comes with malware. Epic didn’t want to pay the 30 percent fee that Google was asking for, however, so downloading the game has gotten a bit more complicated.

Players who want to get “Fortnite” Android will need to visit the developer’s website and sign-in. Once they do, they will be given a chance to download the installer, which will get the files necessary for the mobile game. Once that’s done, the app should launch without a hitch.

Unfortunately, not everyone is going to choose this route, either through ignorance or sheer laziness. There will be potential players who will still try to download “Fortnite” Android on the Play Store or elsewhere. Getting apps that look like the game or downloading from any source other than Epic’s website practically guarantees malware infection. Kids can be particularly susceptible to this.