Disabling Google Play Protect can grant more freedom for installing apps outside the Play Store, but it also comes with significant risks. This built-in security feature on Android devices acts as the first line of defense against harmful applications. Without it, users may face a higher threat of malware infections.
What is Google Play Protect?
Launched in 2017, Google Play Protect is a free and integrated protection system designed to safeguard Android devices from malicious apps, even in the absence of third-party antivirus software. According to Google, Play Protect successfully identified over 27 million new harmful apps in 2025, providing alerts or preventing these apps from running on devices.
How Does Play Protect Work?
This feature not only scans applications from the Play Store before download but also conducts comprehensive scans of your device. Play Protect detects malware and other harmful programs that may come from unofficial sources. Additionally, it issues privacy alerts regarding apps that can access personal information, as well as warnings about deceptive applications that disguise their true functionality.
Risks of Disabling Play Protect
For users who frequently sideload apps, Play Protect will notify you if a downloaded file is potentially harmful. In fact, this feature can prevent installations or automatically remove risky applications from your device. Google reported that the program blocked 266 million attempts to install risky sideloaded apps in 2025. However, users who desire complete freedom to install any app may find these features restrictive. Disabling Play Protect means losing this essential protection, increasing the likelihood of malware infections, and making your device more susceptible to applications that could steal sensitive data.
How to Disable Google Play Protect
If you still wish to disable Google Play Protect, here are the steps to follow:
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Tap the profile icon in the top right corner of the Play Store interface.
- Scroll down and select the Play Protect option.
- Here, you will see when the feature last scanned your apps.
- Click the gear icon for Settings in the top right corner.
- Toggle off the “Scan apps with Play Protect” option.
On the final screen, you can also enable or disable the “Improve harmful app detection” feature. If activated, your account will automatically send apps downloaded from outside the Play Store to Google for malware or suspicious behavior checks.
Considerations Before Disabling
If you are part of Google’s Advanced Protection Program, you must unenroll from it first. To do this, log into your Google account via a web browser, navigate to Security & Sign-in, find the “Advanced Protection Program,” and select “Unenroll.” You may need to restart your device and wait a moment for the Advanced Protection to cease before you can disable Play Protect.
Ultimately, the choice to disable Google Play Protect is a personal one that should be carefully weighed. While it allows for more flexibility in app installations, the associated security risks cannot be overlooked. Ensure you have alternative protection, such as a reliable third-party anti-malware application, if you decide to turn off this feature. As a user, understanding the trade-offs between freedom and security is crucial to keeping your Android device safe.
Source: https://telset.id/how-to/risiko-menonaktifkan-google-play-protect-di-android
