Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi Redmi 8 is a feature that can make life easier (for example, when installing a new app). APK-Files outside of Google Play are also putting the device at risk, and viruses, spyware, and unstable app builds often enter smartphones through this channel. However, not all users know that disable this option is possible not only globally, but selectively for individual applications or browsers.
In this article, we’ll explain why disabling the installation from unknown sources is important for security, and how to do it on Redmi 8 with different versions. MIUI, And what to do if you're locked or not saved, and we'll focus on the nuances of Global, China and the firmware. EEA, The interface and options available may be different.
Why you should disable the installation from unknown sources
The main reason is protection against malware, and according to Kaspersky, more than 60% of mobile viruses spread through the Internet. APK-files downloaded from unofficial sources, and even if you're confident in the file's security, the risk remains:
- 🦠 Trojans and spies: can steal bank card details, passwords or monitor your activity.
- 📱 Adware: Aggressive Advertising that Slows Down Smartphone and Spending Traffic.
- 🔄 Unstable builds: Modified versions of apps often contain bugs that lead to crashes.
- 🚫 Account lockdown MI: Xiaomi can block the device if suspicious activity is detected.
In addition, disabling this option protects against the accidental installation of unnecessary programs, for example, children or elderly relatives can unknowingly download a malicious file from the Internet.
Where is the setting on Xiaomi Redmi 8
The path to the option depends on the version of MIUI. Redmi 8 (released in 2019) most common firmware MIUI 11-14.
- Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
- Go to the Appendix section → Application management.
- Click on the three dots in the top right corner and select Special Access.
- Slip on the item Installation from unknown sources.
In some versions of MIUI, the path may be different:
- 📌 MIUI 12+: Settings → Confidentiality → Special permits → Installation of unknown applications.
- 📌 MIUI 11: Settings → Additionally. → Confidentiality → Installation from unknown sources.
💡
If you can't find a section, try searching in the settings (the magnifying glass icon at the top) and type "unknown sources" and the system will tell you the right way.
Step-by-step instruction for disconnection
When you find the Installation section from unknown sources, you will see a list of applications that are allowed to install APKs, where you can either turn off the function completely or configure it selectively.
Open "Settings" → "Applications" → "Application Management"
Go to "Special Access" → "Installation from Unknown Sources"
Select an application (e.g., “Browser” or “File Manager”)
Move the slider to the "Disconnected" position
Repeat for all unnecessary applications-->
Option 1: Total shutdown
To prevent installation of APK for all applications:
- In the list of applications, tap on each item (for example, Browser, File Manager, Chrome).
- In the window that opens, translate the slider Allow installation from this source to the Off position.
- Confirm the action if a warning appears.
Option 2: Selective disconnection
If you trust some sources (for example, the official APKMirror website), you can only leave permission for the desired applications:
- 🔍 Leave only the File Manager on if you download it. APK manually and check them with antivirus.
- 🌐 Disable for Browser and Chrome to prevent malicious files from automatically downloading.
- 📱 Make sure that for the settings or MIUI Security option is disabled – this will protect against changes through system utilities.
What to do if the slider is inactive?
Features for different versions of MIUI
MIUI interface changes with each version, and security settings are no exception. Below is a table with differences for Redmi 8:
| MIUI version | The path to adjustment | Features |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI 11 | Settings → Additional → Privacy → Installation from unknown sources | The slider may not be available for system applications (e.g., a Packet Installer). |
| MIUI 12/12.5 | Settings → Privacy → Special Permits → Installation of Unknown Applications | Added APK certificate check before installation. |
| MIUI 13/14 | Settings → Applications → Application Management → Special Access → Installation from Unknown Sources | There is a warning about the risks when you turn on the option. |
| MIUI China | Similar to Global, but with Chinese characters (look for icon) 🔒) | Root rights may be required to change certain parameters. |
Important: On MIUI China firmware (Chinese version), some security settings are blocked by default, and they may require unlocking the bootloader or installing Global firmware to change them.
What to do if the settings are not saved
Sometimes, when you turn off the option, it turns on itself again, and this can happen for several reasons:
- Automatic Application Update: Some programs (such as APKUpdater) may request permission again.
- Reset security settings: After rebooting or updating MIUI, the settings are reset.
- Viral activity: If a device already has malware on it, it can change settings.
Decisions:
- 🔄 Reboot the device and check the settings again.
- 🛡️ Scan your smartphone with an antivirus (such as Malwarebytes or Dr.Web).
- 📱 Update. MIUI to the latest version - in new builds, bugs have been fixed with saving settings.
- ⚙️ Reset the application settings in Settings → Annexes → Application management → Three points. → Reset the settings.
💡
If the problem recurs, check the device for root rights (Root Checker). Some viruses gain root access and change system settings.
How to check if the installation from unknown sources is actually disabled
To make sure that the settings are applied correctly, perform the test:
- Download any safe one. APK-file (for example, APKMirror Installer from the official website).
- Try opening the file through the File Manager.
- If the message “Installation is blocked” or “Unlock the source” – the setting works.
If the installation is still going through, it means:
- 🔓 You missed one of the applications in the list Installation from unknown sources.
- 📦 The file was installed through ADB (circumvention of standard restrictions).
- 🛠️ On the device activated the developer mode with the permission Debugging by USB.
💡
For additional protection, enable App Verification in Settings → Privacy → Special Permissions → App Verification. This will allow MIUI Security to scan APK before installation.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When working with security settings, users often make mistakes that negate all efforts.
⚠️ Note: Do not disable installation from unknown sources for settings or MIUI Security: This may result in the inability to update system components.
- 🔧 Ignoring updates MIUI: In older versions of firmware, there may be vulnerabilities that allow you to bypass restrictions.
- 📲 Use of third-party launchers: Some shells (like Nova Launcher) can mask system alerts.
- 🔒 Absence PIN-Code/password: without locking the screen, an attacker can easily enable the installation APK.
- 🌐 Downloading APK Links from messages: even if the source seems reliable, it is better to use official sites.
Another common mistake is allowing installation for all browsers, for example, if you turn on the Chrome option, any site can initiate APK downloads, and it is better to leave permission only for the File Manager and install files manually.