Google Play Protect, launched in 2017, serves as a built-in security system for Android devices, acting as a first line of defense against harmful apps. It scans apps from the Play Store and also checks devices for malware from other sources, warning users about privacy risks and deceptive applications. In 2025, Play Protect detected over 27 million new malicious apps and blocked 266 million risky sideloading installation attempts.

Disabling Play Protect offers more freedom to install any app but significantly increases the risk of malware infections and the installation of apps that can steal sensitive information. The feature cannot be disabled if your Google account is managed by a school or workplace, or if you are enrolled in Google's Advanced Protection Program, which is designed for users at high risk of targeted attacks.

To disable Play Protect, navigate to the Google Play Store, tap your profile icon, select Play Protect, go to Settings, and toggle off "Scan apps with Play Protect." Disabling the "Improve harmful app detection" feature is also an option. If enrolled in the Advanced Protection Program, you must unenroll first through your Google account settings.