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How to Stop Android Apps from Installing Unknown Apps

Disable a source app’s permission to install unknown apps from Android’s Install unknown apps settings. The steps are per app and vary by device.
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On a Pixel, open Settings > Apps > Special app access > Install unknown apps, choose the app used to install downloads, then turn off Allow from this source. This permission is controlled separately for each source app; turning it off does not uninstall apps already on your phone.

Turn off the permission for a source app

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Apps, then Special app access.
  3. Tap Install unknown apps.
  4. Select the app you use to open or install the downloaded package, such as a browser or file manager.
  5. Turn off Allow from this source.

These steps follow Google’s instructions for Pixel phones. Google Pixel Phone Help: Download apps to your Pixel phone

Check other apps that may be allowed to install downloads

Return to the Install unknown apps list and review its entries. The permission is managed per app, so turn off Allow from this source for each source you do not want to authorize.

If you cannot find the setting

Android menu labels and paths can differ on manufacturer-customized versions. Search Settings for Install unknown apps. If the control is still missing or named differently, consult your device manufacturer; Google notes that custom Android versions may use different steps.

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What this setting changes—and what it does not

Turning off Allow from this source stops that selected app from being an authorized source for installing unknown apps. It does not remove apps already installed on the phone, and it does not prevent installation through every possible source.

Google warns that apps from unknown sources can put your phone and personal information at risk, including damage, data loss, or harm to personal information. That warning does not mean every app obtained outside Google Play is malicious. Google recommends using Play as an app source.

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Keep Play Protect enabled

Play Protect is separate from the unknown-app installation permission: the permission controls whether a selected app can initiate these installations, while Play Protect checks apps and devices for harmful behavior. Google says Play Protect is on by default and recommends keeping it on. It can warn about potentially harmful apps and may deactivate or remove them; it can also block certain harmful apps. Google Play Help: Use Google Play Protect to help keep your apps safe & your data private

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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