Installing apps from unknown sources on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones is one of the most common causes of virus infection, data leakage and system instability. Even if you are confident in the security of the downloaded.apk file, accidentally clicking on a fake notification or phishing link can lead to automatic installation of malware. Unlike Google Play Protection, which scans applications after the fact, blocking unknown sources at the system level completely eliminates the risk.
In this article, we will look at all the ways to disable APK installation on Xiaomi Redmi, from standard MIUI settings to hidden settings for advanced users, focusing on the nuances of different versions of the firmware (from MIUI 12 to HyperOS), and explain why even after blocking some applications (for example, Xiaomi GetApps) can bypass restrictions, if you give the phone to a child, employee or just want to protect yourself from random installations, these instructions will help to configure reinforced concrete protection.
Why it is important to ban installations from unknown sources
According to Kaspersky 2023, 68 percent of mobile viruses spread through manual installation of.apk files, not through official stores.
- 🦠 Trojans and spies: Malware can disguise itself as legitimate software (such as modified versions of WhatsApp or TikTok), steal passwords and bank card details.
- 📱 Incompatibility with MIUI: Apps not optimized for Xiaomi can cause overheating, fast battery drain or sensor failures.
- 🔄 Bypassing security updates: Manually installed APK They don’t get automatic patches from Google Play, making them vulnerable to new exploits.
- 🚫 Warranty breach: In some regions (e.g. the EU), uncertified software installation may cause warranty repairs to be denied.
Even if you download APKs from trusted sources (like APKMirror), in 2026, more than 30% of "clean" builds contained hidden trackers or advertising SDKs, according to a study by the University of Sydney.
Method 1: Standard lock through MIUI settings
The easiest method is to disable APK permission from the security menu, which works on all Redmi models (from Redmi 9A to Redmi Note 13 Pro+) and MIUI/HyperOS versions.
- Open the Settings app (cog icon).
- 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 the list of applications (for example, Files, Browser, Telegram) disable the sliders opposite each.
After that, any attempt to install APKs through these applications will be blocked by the system with the notification “Installation prohibited by the device administrator”.
Is the "Special Access" setting open?
Are all applications in the “Installation from Unknown Sources” list disabled?
Is the smartphone rebooted after the changes?
Is the APK test installation checked (should be blocked)?
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⚠️ Note: Some system applications (such as Xiaomi GetApps or Mi App Store) may automatically enable this resolution after an update. 1-2 month.
Method 2: Blocking through "Parent Control"
If you give a phone to a child or employee, a standard lock may not be enough — an experienced user can easily turn the permission back on, and in this case, the built-in Parent Control will help, which:
- 🔒 Blocks the installation of any applications without a password.
- 🕒 Limits the time of use of the device.
- 📱 Hiding system settings (including Special Access).
You can activate the mode as follows:
- Open the Settings. → Regime for children.
- Set your password (don’t use simple combinations like 1234!).
- Turn on the switch Mode for children.
- In the Restrictions section, select Prohibit Application Installation.
Now, any APK (even from Google Play) requires a password, a method that is required if the phone is used by children under 14 years old — according to a study by Common Sense Media, 45% of teenagers install pirated games or hacked apps, risking infecting the device.
How to get around the Mode for children, if you forgot the password?
Method 3: Use ADB to block completely (for advanced)
If standard methods do not help (for example, on custom firmware or after root access), you can turn off the installation. APK Android level through the team ADB. This method works on all versions. MIUI/HyperOS, But it requires a computer connection.
Instructions:
- Download Google’s Platform Tools and unpack the archive.
- Turn on the phone Debugging over USB (Settings → About Phone → MIUI version – tap 7 times, then go back to Additional → For developers).
- Connect Redmi to your PC and type in the command line:
adb shell settings put global install_non_market_apps 0This command globally prohibits installation of all APKs except those downloaded from Google Play. To return the installation option, use:
adb shell settings put global install_non_market_apps 1⚠️ Attention: After completion ADB-commands some system updates (e.g., via Mi Community) may stop installing. Before using this method, back up to Settings → Additionally. → Backup and reset.
Comparison of blocking methods: which one to choose?
Each method has its pros and cons. Below the table will help you determine the best option for your situation:
| Method | Level of protection | Difficulty | Reversibility | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard lock in MIUI | Medium. | Low. | Easy to cancel. | Personal Use, Temporary Protection |
| Regime for children | High-pitched | Medium | Requires a password | Children, staff, rented devices |
| ADB-team | Maximum | Tall. | Demands a PC. | Advanced users, corporate phones |
| Reset to factory settings | High-pitched | Tall. | Deletes all data. | Extreme case (for viruses) |
For most users, Xiaomi Redmi is enough combination of standard lock + Regime for children. ADB-You should only use commands if you are confident in your actions or need a 100% lock guarantee (for example, for corporate devices).
1. Check the list of installed programs in Settings → Applications.
2. remove suspicious APKs.
3. perform antivirus scanning (e.g. Malwarebytes or Dr.Web).-->
What to do if the lock is not working?
Sometimes even after all permissions are turned off, APK installation still goes through.
- 🔄 Cash Systems: Clear the cache in Settings → Annexes → Application management → Three points. → Clear the cache.
- 📦 Damaged firmware: If the phone has previously been rooted or flashed, some settings may be reset. MIUI last-minute.
- 🤖 ADB-Permits: Some applications (such as App Cloner) may request installation rights through ADB. Check the list of allowed devices in Settings → Additionally. → For developers → Withdraw permits USB-debugging.
- 🛡️ Antivirus blocks changes: Turn off Google Play Protection or third-party antiviruses (like Avast) temporarily, then reset the lock setting.
If the problem persists, check the phone for root rights (via the Root Checker app). On rooted devices, blocking unknown sources may not work due to modified system files.
Additional security measures for Xiaomi Redmi
Locking the APK installation is only part of the protection, so as to maximize the security of the device:
- 🔐 Enable encryption: Settings → Additionally. → Encryption and accounts → Encrypt the phone, make it harder to access data when you steal it.
- 🌐 Use it. DNS From Google or Cloudflare: Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Additionally. → Settings DNS and specify 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1. This blocks phishing sites.
- 📲 Disable the installation through SMS/MMS: B Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Additionally. → Settings SMS Prohibit automatic downloading of multimedia.
- 🔄 Set up automatic security updates: Settings → The phone. → Updating the system → Settings → Automatic booting via Wi-Fi.
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If you frequently transfer APK files between devices (e.g. via Bluetooth), create a separate user profile in Settings → System → Multiplayer. In the guest profile, the blocking of unknown sources will operate independently of the main account.