Apple has hastily removed the controversial app from its Apple iTunes, which claims to provide a 'cure' for being gay, but it is still listed on Google's Play Store.
The LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) rights organization, All Out, launched a campaign Wednesday against an app on Apple iTunes and Google Play Store, which claims to treat homosexuality.
Thousands of people came forward to support the cause as the app may cause terrible harm to lesbian, gay, bi, and trans people. More than 68,000 people signed the petition urging Apple and Google to remove the app permanently. All Out hopes to cross 75,000.
According to All Out, the app titled as "Setting Captives Free" teaches how to stop being gay. In a 60-day course it claims to help gay people to get "freedom from the bondage of homosexuality."
Apple was quick to remove the "Setting Captives Free" app from iTunes just a day after the petition was filed, saying it violated "developer guidelines."
"The app targets vulnerable people who are unsure of their sexuality or demonized because of who they love," All Out spokesman, Andre Banks said in the statement, according to JS Online. "Those who don't know better will try this app, but they will undoubtedly fail to change who they are. Our concern is for those who may face severe depression or contemplate harming themselves as a result of this insane app. Governments and doctors have come out forcefully against 'gay cures' around the globe to protect citizens from this egregious and unnecessary harm."
The developer of the app claims that the "Setting Captives Free" app has helped over 400,000 people and besides the mobile app courses are available online.
The app, still available on Google Play Store, is rated 1.5 out of 5 stars. Reviewers have voiced their concern against the damage the app might cause in the lives of gay people.
"I wish I could give this app no stars, because this is a horrible app, made by sick people, being gay is not a illness, you can't cure it!" wrote an upset reviewer, Sam Breshears, "This app should not be aloud on the app store it should be taken down and I hope soon it is, this is the kind of thing that drives gay teens to cut or commit suicide you shouldn't be promoting hate you should promote love, isn't that what god wants?"
Another user reviewer, Astrid Flatset, wrote, "The way I see it you're violating human rights. I hope someone reports you. Google and Apple; shame on you! The one star is just so I could post. People who promotes homophobia deserve nothing."
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