Modern mobile operating systems, including Xiaomi’s MIUI 12, offer users a high level of customization, but also provide ample opportunities for installing software. Often users activate the download function of applications outside the official Google Play store to install modified versions of programs or utilities that are not available in the region.
Attackers are actively exploiting vulnerabilities in the Android operating system, spreading malicious code through third-party sites and file sharing sites. APK-Files from unverified sources, the likelihood of a gadget being infected with a virus-encryptor or Trojan significantly increases.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the process of deactivating permission to install applications from unknown sources in the MIUI 12 shell, learn how to find hidden security settings, how to manage rights for individual installers, and why a standard menu switch may not be enough to fully protect your smartphone.
Risks of installing applications from third-party sources on MIUI
The Android operating system is built on the principle of openness, which allows you to install applications not only through a certified Google Play store, but also directly from the Google Play store. APK-In the shell of the files. MIUI 12 Xiaomi has introduced additional layers of protection, but many users habitually or necessarily ignore the warnings. Installing software from unverified sources opens up direct access to system resources for programs that have not passed the check of Google moderators.
The main danger is that malware is often disguised as useful utilities, games or system updates. Once installed, such an application can quietly request rights to read SMS, access to contacts, microphone and camera. Unlike official applications, third-party code is not checked for backdoors or hidden miners, which can significantly reduce the performance of your device.
In addition, installing outdated or modified versions of popular applications can lead to unstable operation of the MIUI operating system itself. Library conflicts, the use of unsecured data protocols and the lack of automatic security updates make the smartphone easy prey for hackers on the same Wi-Fi network.
It’s also worth noting that some antivirus vendors can’t guarantee 100% real-time protection if the user gives permission to install suspicious objects, so controlling permissions and banning installations from unknown sources is the first and most important line of defense that every Xiaomi owner must build.
Search for security settings in the MIUI 12 interface
The MIUI 12 shell interface has undergone significant changes from previous versions, and the location of some security features has become less obvious.The standard path through the settings menu can vary depending on the regional version of the firmware (Global, China, EEA) and the security patch version. Most often users search for the switch in the Passwords and Security section, but in MIUI 12 the logic of working with permissions has been reworked.
You can start by clicking on the gear icon on your desktop or notification curtain, and you can find the data protection section on the list that opens, and depending on the location, it can be called Passwords and Security or simply Security, and that's where the basic tools for protecting your smartphone from unauthorized access are concentrated.
Inside the security section, we're interested in the app installer subsection. In older versions of Android, there was a global Unknown Sources switch that prohibited or allowed installation of any kind of app. APK-file for the entire system. MIUI 12 approach has changed: permissions are now issued individually for each installer application (for example, for a browser or file manager).
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Search by settings: at the top of the Settings menu, there is a search bar. Type the word “unknown” in there so that the system itself redirects you to the desired menu section, regardless of the firmware version.
It is important to understand that even if you do not find an explicit “Allow Installation from Unknown Sources” switch, this does not mean that the function is active by default. In MIUI 12, the system by default blocks such attempts, requiring confirmation for each case, your task is to make sure that no application has permanent permission to install software without your knowledge.
Step-by-step instructions for disabling permissions
The process of disabling the ability to install applications from unverified sources in MIUI 12 requires several steps to be taken in sequence. Since the global switch is no longer available, you need to check and revoke the rights of all potential installers. Below is a detailed guide to help you secure the device.
First, open the Settings menu and go to Passwords and Security. In some builds, this item may be inside the Additions folder if you have a classic menu mode enabled. Next, select Privacy or Special Features, which often hides settings for installed applications. Find Install Unknown Applications (or Allow Installation from Unknown Sources).
After you click through this section, you’ll see a list of all the apps you’ve ever tried installing. APK-It can be browsers (Chrome, Mi Browser), messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp), or file managers, and your job is to go through this list and make sure that the switch in front of each application is turned off.
☑️ Security check MIUI 12
If you see that permission is on for an application that you don't use to download files, immediately disable it. MIUI can automatically grant such permissions after updating apps or installing new games. Regularly checking this list is a good habit for maintaining smartphone security.
You should also pay attention to pop-ups. APK-file MIUI 12 shows a warning with a countdown timer (usually 10 seconds) before allowing installation.Do not ignore this warning and do not try to bypass it unless you are sure of the source of the file at 100%.
Managing access rights for browsers and file managers
The most common gateways to install unwanted software are web browsers and file managers. APK-files, and that's what the system is MIUI 12 requests installation permission. Understanding how to manage rights for these specific categories of applications is key in setting up security.
Consider the example of the popular Google Chrome browser, where if you don't let it install unknown apps, you try to download them. APK-The file via Chrome system will simply issue an error or prompt you to open the file in another application that has the appropriate permissions. → Annexes → App management, search in the Chrome list, select Other permissions, and make sure that Install Unknown Apps is prohibited.
The same situation is true for Xiaomi's standard File Manager Explorer, which, because it's a system application, often has extended default rights. MIUI 12 you can limit its functionality. If you don't plan to install applications manually through the file manager, it's best to disable this capability so that in case of accidental launch. APK-The installation of the file from the phone memory did not start automatically.
| Annex | Type of access | Recommended status | Risk of inclusion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | APK installation | Off. | High (download of viruses from the network) |
| Telegram | APK installation | Off. | Medium (file transfer from bots) |
| Mi Conductor | APK installation | Off. | Medium (start files from memory) |
| APK installation | Off. | Low (rarely used for APK) |
What to do if the desired application is not on the list?
You can still download documents, images, and music, but the installation process will be blocked at the system level.
Additional Security Measures in MIUI Security
In addition to manual permission management, in the shell MIUI 12 there is a built-in Security app that runs in the background and monitors attempts to install potentially dangerous software.This tool uses Avast antivirus databases (in global versions) or Xiaomi's own heuristic algorithms for analysis. APK-files before they are launched.
For maximum protection, activate Scan When Installation, which is in the settings of the Security app itself. Go to Settings (cog in the Security app) → Security and make sure that Scan Installation Packages is enabled. This will add another level of verification: even if you accidentally allow installation, the system will scan the file for known virus signatures.
⚠️ Note: In some regions, the security function MIUI» It may require you to connect to a company's servers to update virus databases. If you use modified firmware or ad blockers, this feature may not work properly, which will reduce the level of protection.
Also worth paying attention to the function of fraud protection, which is built into the call and messages. MIUI. It does not directly block the installation. APK, It warns of suspicious links leading to malware sites. SMS check-up URL-Addresses in the Security Application Settings.
Remember that no antivirus offers a 100% guarantee: The combination of disabled installation permissions from unknown sources, the MIUI Security scanner enabled, and common sense Internet reception creates a robust shield for your device.
Solving system problems and limitations
MIUI 12 users may find themselves in a situation where the system does not allow a certain permission to be disabled or, conversely, constantly requests its confirmation even after the ban, this may be due to the peculiarities of the operation of specific applications or system errors of the shell, for example, some games emulation applications or alternative app stores may behave aggressively.
If you are trying to install an application you need for work (for example, a corporate messenger or specialized software), but the system blocks the process, do not rush to turn off all protection. Try temporarily allowing installation only for one particular file, and immediately after the installation is completed, close access again.
The reverse problem is that the user wants to install the app, but the Install button is inactive or hidden. In MIUI 12, this is often due to the “Advertent Press Protection” mode enabled or the “Guest” mode.
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Never grant permission to install unknown applications to system services or applications with questionable reputations. If a program requires such permissions for its main work (not related to installing other programs), this is a wake-up call.
In case the settings get lost on their own, check for system updates. Xiaomi regularly releases security patches that can change the logic of permissions. Go to Settings → About the phone and check for MIUI updates.