Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro opens the door to potential security threats. APK-A random error can lead to the installation of malware that steals your data or disrupts the system. The manufacturer blocks this feature by default, but many users enable it to install apps outside of Google Play, such as testing betas or using regionally blocked services.
In this article, we’ll take a look at how to completely disable installation permissions from unknown sources on your Redmi 8 Pro, including the nuances of working with MIUI 12/13/14. You’ll also learn why it’s important for security, what alternatives exist to install the right applications, and what to do if the option doesn’t turn off due to system limitations.
Why do I need to shut down the installation from unknown sources?
The main danger is the lack of control over the source of APK. Unlike Google Play, where applications are tested for malicious code, files from the Internet or third-party stores (for example, APKMirror or Aptoide) can contain:
- 🔍 Spyware – programs that track your actions, passwords, or geolocation.
- 💣 Trojans – Masquerading as legitimate apps, but stealing data or blocking a device.
- 📱 Adware – Aggressive Advertising that Can Slow Down Your Smartphone.
- 🔄 Fake updates – scammers spread fake updates to popular apps (like WhatsApp or Telegram).
Even if you download. APK From a trusted site, there is a risk of file swaps when downloaded over unsecured networks (such as public Wi-Fi). For example, in 2022, researchers discovered a vulnerability in some versions of the file. MIUI, allowing attackers to replace downloaded files through MITM-Attacks (Man-in-the-Middle).
⚠️ Note: On the Redmi 8 Pro with an unlocked bootloader, the risk of infection is higher.
Preparation: Check the current security settings
Before you turn off permission, make sure that your device does not have active application-specific exceptions. MIUI has a feature that allows you to only allow APK installation for certain programs (such as File Manager or Browser).
- Open Settings → Applications → Application Management.
- Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Special Access.
- Go to Install Unknown Applications.
- View the list of applications with permission to install APK.
If there are unnecessary programs (such as messengers or little-known browsers), turn off the resolution for them with a slider. This is the first step to improving security.
| Annex | Risks in allowing APK installation | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Files by Google (Mi File Manager) | Medium (depending on file sources) | Disable if you are not using a third-party APK |
| Browser (Chrome, Mi Browser) | High (risk of downloading malicious files) | It's imperative to turn it off. |
| Messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp) | Low (unless passed APK) | You can leave, but keep track of the transferred files |
| Downloaders (IDM, ADM) | Critical (often used to download pirated software) | Shut down immediately. |
Step-by-step: how to disable the installation from unknown sources
The process varies depending on the version of MIUI. Below is a generic algorithm that works for Redmi 8 Pro on MIUI 12-14 (including global and Chinese firmware). If you have a different version, check out the FAQ section.
☑️ Preparation for disabling permits
Method 1: Through the basic security settings
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
- Go to the Appendix section → Application management → Special access.
- Select Install Unknown Applications.
- For each application in the list, turn off the slider next to the Allow Installation option from that source.
- Confirm the action by pressing OK in the window that appears.
Method 2: Developer settings (for power users)
If the standard method didn’t work (for example, because of a modified firmware), try disabling the option via the developer mode:
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone and click on MIUI Version 7 times.
- Return to Settings → Additional settings → For developers.
- Find the USB Debugging option and turn it off (this will block some ways to circumvent restrictions).
- Scroll down and find the Installation via USB – turn it off.
⚠️ Note: Some custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience or LineageOS) may not have these settings, which will require factory resets or official flashing. MIUI.
💡
If you can still install APKs after disabling permissions, check for apps with super-user (root) rights. Use the Root Checker from Google Play for diagnostics.
What to do if the option is not turned off?
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the APK installation permission remains active despite all manipulations, and the reasons may be as follows:
- 🔧 Modified firmware – custom builds (for example, Xiaomi.eu or MIUI Pro) may ignore system constraints.
- 🛡️ Malware – some viruses block changes to security settings.
- 📱 Device Policy – if the phone is managed via Android Enterprise or Mi Account with corporate restrictions.
- 🔄 System Error – Bugs in Certain Versions MIUI (for example, MIUI 12.5.3. there was a problem with resetting permits).
Solutions for each of the problems:
| Problem. | Decision |
|---|---|
| Custom firmware | Return to the official MIUI via Fastboot or Recovery. |
| Malware | Scan Malwarebytes or Dr.Web, then reset. |
| Corporate policy | Contact your device administrator or delete your Mi Account account. |
| System bug | Update MIUI to the latest version or reset your settings. |
How to get back the official firmware on Redmi 8 Pro?
Alternatives to installing APKs from unknown sources
If you have disabled permission but still need apps that aren’t available on Google Play, consider legal alternatives:
- 🌍 Regional VPN — certain applications (e.g, Pokémon GO Netflix with an extended directory becomes available when you connect to servers in other countries.
- 📦 APK-mirrors – official sources such as APKMirror, where files are checked for integrity and signature.
- 🔄 Cloning Apps – Use Parallel Space or Island to create an isolated environment with separate security settings.
- 📱 Web versions – many services (such as Telegram Web or WhatsApp Web) work through a browser without installing.
For enterprise users, Xiaomi offers Mi App Store Enterprise, a closed app store with its own security rules. To access it, contact Xiaomi Support for a connection.
💡
Disabling the installation from unknown sources does not block system application updates via MIUI Updater.These files are digitally signed by Xiaomi and are considered secure.
Additional security measures for the Redmi 8 Pro
Disabling the APK installation is only part of the comprehensive protection, so you can protect your device as much as possible.
- Turn on Google Play Protect: Go to Google Play → Menu → Play Protect. Activate the Threat Scanning and Improved Malware Search options.
Set up a lock on file downloads
- In Settings → Applications → Application Management, select a browser.
- Turn off the permission Storage or Download files.
- Use two-factor authentication for Mi Account and device encryption (in Settings → Lock and Protection → Encryption).
For advanced users, we recommend installing the Xiaomi Security App (available from the Mi App Store), which offers advanced scanning tools, including checking the integrity of system files and detecting suspicious processes.