No, the D-U-N-S Number requirement by Google Play and Apple App Store is not a scam. It is a legitimate requirement for businesses to verify their identity and establish credibility. Here’s why it is mandated and how it benefits both you and the platform:

Why Do Google Play and Apple Require a D-U-N-S Number?

1. Business Verification:
   • The D-U-N-S Number is a globally recognized standard for identifying businesses. It helps Google and Apple ensure that apps published under a company name are truly owned by that company.
2. Prevent Fraud:
   • It reduces the risk of fraudulent activity, such as impersonation or malicious apps being uploaded under fake business names.
3. Credibility:
   • The D-U-N-S Number is widely used in business credit reporting. By requiring it, these platforms add another layer of trust for users who interact with apps from businesses.
4. Legal Compliance:
   • Many app store regulations in different regions require businesses to prove their legitimacy. A D-U-N-S Number fulfills this requirement globally.
5. Global Standardization:
   • Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), the issuer of D-U-N-S Numbers, is a globally recognized entity. Using their system provides a uniform way to verify businesses regardless of location.

Is It a Scam?

• Legitimacy: The D-U-N-S Number is a legitimate global identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet. It has been in use since 1962.
• Trustworthy Process: Apple and Google only use the D-U-N-S Number for business verification and do not profit from it.
• Global Standard: Over 330 million businesses worldwide are identified by D-U-N-S Numbers. It is used in various industries, including government contracts, trade credit, and supply chain management.

Who Needs a D-U-N-S Number?

• If you are publishing apps under a company name (not as an individual), you are required to have a D-U-N-S Number for:
  • Apple Developer Program (Business Enrollment).
  • Google Play Console (Business Accounts).
• Individual Developers:
  • If you are publishing apps under your personal name, you don’t need a D-U-N-S Number.

D-U-N-S Number Costs

• Free Option: Applying for a D-U-N-S Number via Dun & Bradstreet’s standard process is free, but it can take up to 30 business days.
• Expedited Service: Faster processing (5-10 business days) is available for a fee, depending on your country.

Red Flags to Watch For

While D-U-N-S itself is not a scam, beware of third-party services claiming to “guarantee” D-U-N-S Numbers for inflated fees. To avoid issues:

1. Apply Directly via Dun & Bradstreet:
   • Visit the official D&B website for your country (e.g., D&B India or D&B Global).
2. Verify the Process:
   • Ensure you are submitting your information only on the official D&B platform.

What Happens If You Don’t Have One?

If your business does not have a D-U-N-S Number, you won’t be able to:

1. Enroll as a Business in Apple Developer Program.
2. Verify your business account on Google Play Console.

However, you can still enroll as an individual developer without this requirement.

Conclusion

The D-U-N-S Number is not a scam; it is a valid and necessary part of business verification for platforms like Google Play and Apple Developer. By providing a globally recognized standard, it ensures trust, security, and compliance in the app ecosystem.

If you have concerns or need help applying for a D-U-N-S Number, feel free to ask!D-U-N-S which is mandatory by Google Play and Apple Store. Is it scam?