How to turn off installation from unknown sources on Xiaomi Redmi 9: a complete guide with pictures

Xiaomi Redmi 9 smartphones under control MIUI It allows you to install apps not only from the official Google Play store, but also from third-party sources, so-called "unknown sources." APK-files, but at the same time opens the door to malware, viruses and phishing. If you notice that your device has activated an installation from unknown sources without your knowledge, or just want to improve the level of security – this guide will help you completely disable this option and protect your Redmi 9 from potential threats.

Unlike older versions of Android, where APK installation permission was granted globally, MIUI 12/13/14 (depending on the firmware version of your Redmi 9) grants this permission separately for each application, which complicates the process of disabling, but makes the system more flexible.

• 🔍 Where is the setting in the Xiaomi Redmi 9 menu and how to get there;
• ⚙️ Additional security measures that are worth setting up.

If you have previously tried to establish APK-file and now see the system warning about risks, or just want to return factory security settings - follow the instructions below. We will also tell you which applications most often request this permission without the user’s knowledge (such as file managers or browsers), and how to avoid accidentally activating the feature.

What is an “Installation from Unknown Sources” and why should it be turned off?

Install Unknown Apps allows you to install applications on Xiaomi Redmi 9 that are not downloaded from Google Play.

• 🌍 Use of alternative stores (e.g. APKMirror or Aptoide);

However, in practice, 90% of malware penetrates smartphones through the APK-files from unverified sources:

• 🕵️ Spyware (theft of data, passwords, photos);
• 💸 Trojans for SMS-Fraud (sending paid messages without your knowledge);
• 🔋 Viruses-miners that drain the battery and heat the processor;
• 📵 Rootkits that gain full control of the system.

Even if you are sure of the source of APK, MIUI and Android can’t guarantee the security of such files. For example, modified versions of popular apps (such as WhatsApp Plus or Spotify Premium APK) often contain hidden threats. Disabling the installation from unknown sources is the first step to protecting your Redmi 9.

⚠️ Note: Some apps (such as Xiaomi File Manager or Chrome) may automatically request this permission when downloaded. APK. Always check who you are giving the right to install!

Where is the setting on Xiaomi Redmi 9: the way to the menu

Depending on the MIUI version on your Redmi 9, the path to customization may vary slightly.

1. For MIUI 12/13 (Android 10/11): Settings → Annexes → Application management → ☰ (three dots in the upper right corner) → Special access → Installation from unknown sources
2. For MIUI 14 (Android 12/13): Settings → Applications → Permissions → Install Unknown Applications

If you are not sure about the firmware version, check it out this way:

1. Open the settings → About the phone;
2. Find the MIUI version line (e.g. MIUI Global 14.0.5)
3. The Android version is listed below (such as Android 12).

After you go to Install from Unknown Sources, you will see a list of applications that are allowed to install APKs. By default, here may be:

• 📁 File Manager (Integrated File Manager);
• 🌐 Chrome or another browser;
• 📥 Downloads (application for downloaded files).

Make sure all the apps you need are installed from Google Play|

Close all the work. APK-file|

Check if there are any active downloads in the browser |

Backup important data (in case of failure)-->

Step-by-step: how to disable APK installation on Redmi 9

Follow this algorithm to completely ban the installation of applications from unknown sources:

1. Open Settings on your Redmi 9 (the gear icon on the home screen or in the app menu).
2. Go to the Applications section (may be called All Apps or Application Management).
3. Slip on the three dots in the top right corner and select "Special Access" (or "Permissions" in MIUI 14).
4. Find the item “Installation from unknown sources” and open it.
5. View the list of applications with permission: 🔴 If the slider is turned on (blue) next to the application, tap it to turn off. ⚪ If the slider is grey, the resolution is already off.

Repeat for all applications

File Manager

Chrome

Downloads.

Once all permissions are disabled, the system will block the installation of any APKs not downloaded from Google Play, and if you try to install such a file, you will see a message:

To protect your phone, installing apps from unknown sources is blocked.

If you accidentally turn on permission for an app, go back to this section and turn it off again. Some viruses try to activate this option themselves - so we recommend checking the settings once a month.

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If you install APKs frequently but want to stay safe, create an individual user in your Android settings (Guest Profile) and enable permission only for them.

Table: Which apps most often request permission to install APKs?

Not all programs need the right to install applications, but here is a list of the applications that most often request this permission, and whether it should be given:

If you see an unfamiliar app with resolution enabled on the list, this is an occasion to check your phone for viruses using Google Play Protect or Malwarebytes.

What if the permit is activated by itself?

If the function is turned on again after turning off without your knowledge, this may mean:

• 🤖 Virus software on the phone (most often - Trojans of the Agent or HiddenAds family);
• 🔄 Automatic update of an application that has previously been authorized;
• 📲 Mistake. MIUI (rarely, but only after updates).

Actions to eliminate:

1. Check your phone for viruses: Open Google Play → Menu → Play Protect → Scan; Install Malwarebytes or Dr.Web Light and run a deep scan.
2. Remove suspicious apps: Go to Settings → Apps → Application Management; Sort by installation date and remove unfamiliar programs.

Reset the security settings:

• Settings → System → Resetting of settings → Resetting of application settings;
• This will remove all permissions, including unknown sources.

⚠️ Warning: If the virus has blocked access to settings, try booting in Safe Mode (click the power button). → «Safe Mode. In this mode, third-party apps don’t work and you’ll be able to remove malware.

Additional security measures for Xiaomi Redmi 9

Disabling the installation from unknown sources is just the first step. To protect your Redmi 9 as much as possible, do a few more things:

• 🔒 Turn on the screen lock (PIN, This will prevent unauthorized access to settings.
• 🛡️ Play Google Play Protect: Google Play → Menus (☰) → Play Protect → Enable device scanning
• 🚫 Prohibit installation from ADB (for experienced users: Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI (Tap 7 times to turn on the developer mode) → Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers → Debugging by USB (disconnect)
• 🔄 Update. MIUI Up to the latest version (they are closed vulnerabilities).

We also recommend disabling automatic download of files in messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) to avoid accidental download of malicious APKs.

1. On WhatsApp: Settings → Storage and Data → Autoupload Media → Select “Never”
2. In Telegram: Settings → Data and memory → Autoboot → disable for all types of files.

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Even if you disable the installation from unknown sources, viruses can penetrate vulnerabilities in your browser or messengers.Regularly update applications and do not open suspicious links!

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When working with security settings on Xiaomi Redmi 9 users often make the following mistakes:

1. Disable permission for only one application, forgetting about the rest. ❌ Example: Turned off the installation for Chrome, but left for File Manager. ✅ Solution: Check all apps on the list and turn off permission for each.
2. Ignoring system warnings. ❌ Example: When attempting to establish APK A warning appears, but the user clicks “Either way». ✅ Solution: Never ignore warnings MIUI Google Play Protect or Google Play Protect.
3. Download. APK from unreliable sources. ❌ Example: Install modified versions of Instagram or TikTok from questionable sites. ✅ Solution: Use only Google Play or verified sources like APKMirror (with hash checks).

Another common problem is that you can't turn off the resolution for some system applications, like GetApps.

• 🔧 Try to disable the app (if possible) in Settings → Annexes → Select an application → Shut down;
• 📵 If you can not turn off - limit its access to the Internet through Settings → Mobile network → Data transmission for applications.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions