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The Google Authenticator app is considered an important security tool for most online users, while there are various alternative tools. Google presented a fairly insignificant ‘Click to reveal PIN’ feature in May 2022. It hides the entire 2-factor authentication codes from view and enables users to disclose their user codes.

It seems like a pretty harmless inclusion because 2FA codes alter after every 30 seconds. The company ostensibly doesn’t consider it, while the feature has vanished from the Authenticator app after announcing last week’s update. The termination is linked to the update of Google Authenticator version 5.20R4 and it is available via APK mirror.

Google Play Store Now Offers Device Encryption for Storage

Moreover, 9to5Google reported that it doesn’t include any other considerable components. The release notes available on the app’s Play Store listing include device encryption for the storage of secret principles. The tap-to-reveal PIN feature is only used for conditions when users have strangers around them similar to a crowded situation.

But as we have discussed above, frequently changing codes and hiding them wasn’t considered a key benefit. Google didn’t mention why it withdrew the course of this specific feature, but we are expecting more explanation. However, there is also a supposed option that it would come back with or without significant changes.

May Update has Brought the Latest 5.20R2 Version

Keep in mind that the latest update for the Google authentication app was announced on July 14. It is supposedly already live on your device if you have enabled the auto-update option. Moreover, the update in May 2022 brought it to version 5.20R2. It presented the capability to conceal 2FA codes which was the first option of the app in two years.

We can also experience more changes with the pace of these updates and revised updates coming in streams. Pcmag.com also reported that Russian communications regulator Roskomnadzor has fined Google for intentionally spreading fake information. Google was alleged for spreading false information related to the Russian special military operation in Ukraine.

Google Was Allegedly Involved in Not Removing Illegal Content

Moreover, Reuters also reported that Roskomnadzor alleged Google for continuously failing to eliminate content considered illegal in Russia. Roskomnadzor said the video hosting site YouTube intentionally motivates the broadcasting of deceptive information regarding the progress of Russian military operations. The platform was alleged for disgracing the Russian Federation armed forces.

It is considered impossible for Google to transfer the cash even if the company decides to pay the imposed fine. The imposed sanctions right now block various types of money transfers to Russia. The Russian government has already annexed its bank account of Google and prevented the company to pay employees in Russia.

More Companies Will Experience Russian Fine

The situation has become more critical, so the company has decided to file for bankruptcy. It isn’t the first time Google has experienced a massive fine for its distributed content related to Russian activity. In December 2021, the company was fined $110 million for not removing Russian considered illegal content. In April 2022, Russia imposed a $170,000 fine for allegedly spreading false information.

However, Russia didn’t fine Google for any illegal activity. Pinterest, Twitch, UPS, and Airbnb were all fined last month for rejecting to save the personal data of Russian users in the country. In May 2022, more companies including Likeme and Apple were included in the list of companies. These companies are supposedly involved in failing to follow the legislation in Russia.