Following the removal of dozens of malware-infecting apps from Android Market, security experts are suggesting that Google should do more to make sure that the apps are safe before they are made available for downloading.

The malware-infecting apps had been intelligently modified to include the malware. Once downloaded, the malicious apps used to secretly install malware on the smartphones to steal users’ personal information such as handset’s exclusive IMEI number.

In addition, the malicious apps would take advantage of security vulnerabilities of the devices and install a backdoor app to allow further installation of pirated software.

According to a report published by TechChrunch, Web search giant Google removed a total of 58 malicious apps, but before being removed they were already downloaded to more than 260,000 devices.

Google urges users to rate apps and set off the alarm regarding any problems with them. But, experts believe that the practice is not enough to ensure the safety of the apps.

Chief technology officer Chris Wysopal, of computer-security firm Veracode, said, "App stores need to get serious about vetting code before it is available for customer download.”

Apple and Research In Motion Ltd. have employees dedicated to approve apps before making them available to users, but Google doesn’t have such practice. However, Google claims that it removes apps that breach its policies, and applies some internal procedures to spot offenders.