Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi smartphones is a feature that can make life easier (e.g. when installing apps). APK-There are also serious security risks to files outside of Google Play, and if you have previously allowed this option but now want to disable it — for example, after installing the right app or because of concerns about data security — it is important to do it right. In this article, we will discuss all ways to cancel permission, including nuances for different versions. MIUI Xiaomi models and why it is critical to protect the device.
Disabling an installation from unknown sources is not just a return of one parameter to its original state. In MIUI, this feature can be tied to specific applications (for example, a browser or a file manager), and also hide in different settings sections depending on the firmware version. If you do not know where to look for this option, or if you encounter errors when trying to disable it, our guide will help you understand all the details.
Why you should disable the installation from unknown sources
Installation permit APK-Third-party files open doors to potential threats:
- 🦠 Viruses and malware: Even one infected file can steal your data, display intrusive ads, or block your device.
- 🕵️ Spyware: Some apps collect information about your activities, contacts, or location without your knowledge.
- 🔄 System instability: Applications from unverified sources often contain errors that cause crashes MIUI.
- 🚫 Violation of Google Play Policy: Installing pirated or modified apps may result in account blocking.
In addition, some banking applications (such as SberBank Online or Tinkoff) refuse to work on devices with an installed option from unknown sources, citing increased risks of fraud.
⚠️ Caution: Disabling the installation from unknown sources does not remove the already installed APK-If you suspect that there is malware on the device, additionally scan the smartphone with an antivirus (for example, Dr.Web or Kaspersky Mobile).
Where is the configuration in MIUI: ways for different versions
Depending on the MIUI version (12, 13, 14 or HyperOS) and the smartphone model (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13, etc.), the path to setup may vary.
| MIUI/HyperOS version | The path to adjustment | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MIUI 12–13 | Settings → Annexes → Application management → ⚙️ (gear) → Special rights → Installation from unknown sources | On some devices, the item may be called “Application Rights”. |
| MIUI 14 | Settings → Annexes → Application management → ⚙️ (setting) → Installation of unknown applications | In some regional firmware, the name may differ. |
| HyperOS (2026) | Settings → Applications → Application permissions → Installation of unknown applications | The new interface may require an additional swipe down to search for a item. |
| Redmi with lightweight firmware | Settings → Additional → Privacy → Installation of unknown applications | On older models (Redmi 9A, Redmi 8) the path can be longer. |
If you do not find the desired item along the specified paths, use the search by settings (the magnifying glass icon in the upper right corner). Enter the request "Install unknowns" - the system will show the exact path.
Step-by-step: how to disable permission
When you find a section with settings from unknown sources, follow this instruction:
- Open the list of applications that are allowed to install APK. Usually, browsers (Chrome, Mi Browser), file managers (Files, File Manager) and instant messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp) are displayed here.
- Click on the app you want to disable permission for, for example, if you installed an APK through Chrome, select it.
- Translate the slider "Allow installation from this source" to the position Off (grey).
- Repeat the action for all apps on the list if you want to completely disable APK installation.
Important: MIUI 14 and HyperOS may require fingerprint confirmation, or PIN-It's an additional security measure that can't be turned off.
Opens "Install Unknown Applications" | Chrome slider is turned to "Off." | Files slider is moved to "Off." | Verified no permissions for other applications-->
⚠️ Attention: On some firmware (MIUI Global for the European market) after disabling the permission, a notification may appear "Installation blocked by the administrator" This is normal and means that the system has successfully banned the installation. APK.
What to do if the setting is not turned off
Sometimes users are faced with the installation slider from unknown sources not moving or returning to its original position.
- 🔒 The device is controlled through MDM: If the smartphone is tied to a corporate system (for example, Microsoft Intune), the administrator can block the change of this setting. IT-service.
- 🛡️ The "For Children" mode is active: MIUI There's a parental control feature that can restrict access to security settings. → Parental control.
- 🔄 System failure: Restart the device and try again. If the problem persists, reset the security settings: Settings → System system → Resetting settings → Reset application settings.
- 📱 Castom firmware: On informal firmware (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience), the path to setup may be different.Look for "Unknown sources" under "Security".
If none of these methods worked, check if the device has an administrator application (such as 360 Security or Clean Master) that can block changes. → Annexes → Application management → ⚙️ → Device administrators and remove the rights from suspicious programs.
How to check if there are administrators on the device
How to prevent installation of APK at system level (for power users)
If you want to completely block the installation APK-files, including bypassing ADB, You can use hidden settings MIUI. This method is suitable for advanced users and requires activation of the developer mode.
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version and click on it 7 times until the notification “You became a developer” appears.
- Go back to the basic settings and open a new Developer section (usually at the bottom of the list).
- Find the item "Debugging by USB" and turn it on.
- Connect your smartphone to your computer and execute a command to ADB: adb shell settings put global install_non_market_apps 0 This will completely block the installation. APK from any source other than Google Play.
Once this command is executed, even system applications (such as Files) will not be able to install APKs until you return the setting to 1. To unlock the installation, use the same command with 1 instead of 0.
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If, after the execution, ADB-setup APK It is still possible, check if the settings are overridden by custom recovery (for example, TWRP). In this case, you will need to edit the file. /system/build.prop Or return stock recovery.
What happens if you leave the permission on?
Many users neglect to shut down the installation from unknown sources, believing that “nothing is installed, so nothing will happen.” However, even passively having this permission creates risks:
- 📥 Hidden Software Installation: Some websites or banner ads can automatically download and install APK without your knowledge (for example, through vulnerabilities in the browser).
- 🔗 Phishing attacks: Scammers can slip you a file with a name that mimics a legitimate application (for example, a file with a name that is not a legitimate application, "sberbank_apk_new_version.apk"), which actually steals data.
- 📦 Auto-update malware: If a device already has a virus, it can use the permission to update itself or download additional modules.
Kaspersky’s 2023 statistics show that 38% of Android device infections occur through APK installations from unknown sources, and 60% of the time, users don’t even know that their smartphone has malware until they face consequences (such as debiting money from an account or blocking files).
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Disabling the installation from unknown sources is not paranoia, but a basic security measure that closes one of the main vectors of attacks on Android devices.