Xiaomi Security app: why you need it, how it works and whether it is possible to remove it

If you’ve ever looked into the installed app list on a Xiaomi smartphone, you’ve probably noticed a system software called Security (or “Security” in Russified firmware) preinstalled on all of the brand’s devices, but not everyone understands why it needs to be installed and how to manage it, and someone even tries to remove it, considering it an unnecessary block that occupies memory.

Security is actually the central security node of your Xiaomi that integrates antivirus, permission control, system optimization, and even parental control, and without it, your smartphone becomes vulnerable to malware attacks, unauthorized access, and "brakes" due to background processes. But how exactly does it work? Can it be disabled without risk to the device? And why are some features only available in Chinese firmware? Let's get into order.

In this article you will find:

• 🔍 What is Security and How is it Different from Google Play Protect?
• ⚙️ Detailed analysis of all functions (from scanning for viruses to blocking spam)
• 📱 Step-by-step instructions for setting up and disabling individual modules
• ⚠️ Remove the risks and how to return the application if it disappears

What is Xiaomi Security App and Why You Need It

Security (or Mi Security in older versions) is Xiaomi’s proprietary solution for comprehensive protection of smartphones based on the MIUI. Unlike third-party antiviruses, it is deeply integrated into the system and has access to the Android kernel, which allows you to use the software:

• 🛡️ Block malicious files at the download stage
• 🔒 Control application rights (e.g. camera or geolocation access)
• 📊 Optimize performance by cleaning cache and background processes
• 📵 Filter spam calls and SMS (It works even without the internet)

It's important to understand that Security is not just an antivirus, it's a whole suite of tools that replaces a few separate applications, like the built-in Cleaner for garbage cleaning, the App Lock for password locking applications, and even the Game Turbo for game optimization, all of which work synchronously without conflicting with each other.

Compare it to the alternatives:

Security uses a cloud-based virus signature database from Xiaomi and Tencent, which is updated daily, which means that the smartphone is protected from even fresh threats that have not yet entered Google’s databases.

Where is Security and how to open it

You can find the application in several ways - it all depends on the version. MIUI And the smartphone models. Here are the most reliable options:

1. Through the app menu: scroll to the Tools (or Utilities) folder – there is usually a Security icon (check-tick shield).
2. Through Settings: Go to Settings → Annexes → Manage applications and type in the search for “Security».
3. Through the notification bar: swipe down from the top edge of the screen and tap on the Security Notice (if any).

On some models (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro or POCO X3 Pro) The icon can be called Mi Security or Protection. If you didn't find it on the menu, try it:

adb shell pm list packages | grep security

This command (introduced through ADB) will display the exact packet ID from which the application can be found.

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On smartphones with MIUI 13+ The Security app can be hidden in the folder Additional. To return it to the home screen, pinch the icon and drag it to the right place.

Main functions of Security: analysis by modules

Security is divided into several tabs, each with its own protection area, and let's look at them in detail.

1. Antivirus (Virus Scan)

This is a basic module that scans:

• 📱 Installed annexes (including APK-file)
• 📁 System files (for changes)
• 🌐 Network threats (phishing sites, malicious links)

You can run the scan manually or set it up on a schedule, like Xiaomi. 12T optional:

• 🔄 Quick scan (checks only critical areas)
• 🔍 Deep scan (full check, takes up) ~5-10 minute)
• 🛡️ Real-time protection (monitoring) 24/7)

2. Cleaner (Cleaning)

This section helps to free up memory and speed up the smartphone.

• 🗑️ Delete the application cache (including residual files)
• 📂 Clean up loads and basket
• 🔄 Optimize auto-start (disable background processes)

3. App Lock (Application Block)

It allows you to protect individual programs with a password, fingerprint or face unlock.

• 🔐 Messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram)
• 💳 Banking applications (Sberbank, Tinkoff)
• 📷 Galleries or Notes with Confidential Information

Configure less than a minute: select the app → Establish a method of unlocking → confirm.

4. Spam filter (Call & SMS Filter)

One of the most useful modules that blocks:

• 📞 Fraudulent calls (from banks, tax, etc.)
• 💬 SMS-mailing (advertising, phishing)
• 🤖 Robots (autophone with recorded messages)

The spammer database is updated automatically through the Xiaomi cloud, while the filter works without the Internet - the numbers are blocked at the system level.

5 Parental Controls (Parental Controls)

It limits:

• ⏰ Time of use of the smartphone
• 🎮 Access to games and social media
• 🔞 Content 18+ browser-on-youtube

The feature is tied to the Mi Account, so settings are synchronized between devices.

Other instruments

Depending on the model and region, firmware can be available:

• 🔌 Battery (flow monitoring)
• 📡 Network (Traffic Optimization)
• 🎵 Sound (setting notifications)

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The Game Turbo feature in Security automatically disables notifications and optimizes performance during games. FPS on 10-15% on weak smartphones (tested on Redmi) 9A).

How to Disable or Remove Security on Xiaomi

Many users try to get rid of Security, considering it unnecessary, but the complete removal of the application without root rights is impossible, it is protected by the system as a critical component.

1. Disable individual functions

To reduce the load on the system:

1. Open Security. → Settings (cog in the upper right corner).
2. Select AutoRun and disable the background work of unnecessary modules.
3. In the Notifications section, forbid displaying alerts.

2. Hide the icon from the menu

If the app gets in the way, it can be hidden:

1. Press the Security icon on the home screen.
2. Choose Remove (it's actually just a cover-up).
3. To return, find it in the list of all applications (Settings) → Annexes).

3. Removal through ADB (advanced)

⚠️ Warning: This method requires an unlocked bootloader and can lead to unstable system operation!

adb shell pm uninstall --user 0 com.miui.securitycenter

Once the command is executed, the application will disappear, but some security features (such as permission control) will stop working.

Check for an alternative antivirus|Create a backup copy of the data|Remember passwords from blocked applications (App Lock)|Disable only unnecessary modules, not the entire application-->

Security Problems and How to Solve Them

Sometimes Security can work incorrectly, and here are the most common problems and ways to fix them:

1. Permanent threat notifications

If the app warns too often about viruses:

• Update the antivirus databases through Security → Settings → Updating the database.
• Check if you have any pirates installed. APK-Files (they often falsely trigger).
• Turn off the Real-Time Protection if it interferes.

2. Security does not open or fly out

Possible causes:

• 🔄 An outdated version MIUI — firmware update.
• 📱 Damaged system files – reset settings (Settings) → The phone. → Resetting settings).
• 🛠️ Conflict with another antivirus – remove third-party protection programs.

3. Spam blocking is not working

Check it out.

• Is the call filter module enabled and SMS in Security settings.
• Has the spammer database been updated (manually via Settings) → Update the spam database).
• Has the number been added to the White List (exceptions)?

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If Security has stopped scanning files, try clearing its cache: Settings → Annexes → Security → Warehouse → Clear the cache.

Global and Chinese security: what is the difference?

Security functionality is highly dependent on the regional version. MIUI:

⚠️ Note: on Chinese firmware, Security can send activity data to Xiaomi servers to analyze threats. If it is critical to you, use the global version or disable the option to Improve Protection in the app settings.

Also in China. ROM unique functions:

• 🔍 Application authentication (detects modified applications) APK)
• 📡 Wi-Fi protection (blocking suspicious networks)
• 🔑 Hardware encryption (for corporate users)

Security Alternatives: Should I Replace the Standard App?

If you don't like the built-in protection, you can consider third-party solutions.

• 🔄 Antiviruses (Kaspersky, Dr.Web) duplicate Security features, but consume more battery.
• 🛡️ App Ops Managers Require Root Rights to Work Fully.
• 📵 Spam Blockers (Truecaller) Collect Your Contacts and Call History.

The advantages of standard security:

• 🔋 Minimum resource consumption (optimized for the MIUI).
• 🔒 Deep Integration (Core Level Control).
• 🆓 Free without advertising or subscriptions.

If you're gonna replace it,

1. Turn off Security (as described above).
2. Install an alternative from Google Play.
3. Set up exceptions for critical applications (banks, instant messengers).

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Antiviruses cannot completely replace Security, as they do not have access to system systems. API MIUI. For example, they won’t be able to block auto-launch apps or optimize games.

FAQ: Frequent Security Questions on Xiaomi