Google says Android devices in sanctioned countries will be exempt from its forthcoming developer-verification checks, allowing unverified apps to be installed locally. However, developers living in those countries will reportedly be unable to complete verification, which could prevent them from distributing apps easily to users elsewhere; this marks a significant restriction on Android’s traditionally open sideloading model.

The system, due to begin rolling out within a month, will require developers distributing apps outside Google Play to provide identification and pay a fee on Android devices with Google services. Countries affected by US sanctions currently include Iran, Cuba, North Korea and occupied areas of Ukraine; devices there will not enforce the checks, but users will lose the scheme’s stated security protections. Google says verification is intended to reduce scam apps, while an “advanced flow” for installing unverified apps elsewhere involves warnings and a 24-hour delay.