Nowadays, our smartphones have become an essential part of our lives. They hold a wealth of personal information, making it crucial to prioritise security. Avoiding harmful applications such as stalkerware, spyware and predatory loan apps, Google has implemented a safeguard called Google Play Protect to help ensure the safety of your Android device and the apps you use. 

Now real-time scanning is now available on your Android device. 

What is Google Play Protect?

Google Play Protect is a robust security feature designed to keep your Android device safe from malicious software and potential threats. It does so through continuous monitoring and proactive actions to keep your device secure. Here's what you need to know:

App Scanning:

When you download apps from the Google Play Store, Google Play Protect scans them for malware, spyware, and other security vulnerabilities. If it finds any issues, it will alert you and may prevent the app from being installed. This process ensures that the apps you download are safe and trustworthy. This existed in the past, but google announced and implemented the new real-time feature, that allows you to get info right away.

Regular Updates:

Google Play Protect is continually updated to stay ahead of emerging threats. Google's security team works tirelessly to identify and address new vulnerabilities, keeping your device protected.

Safe Browsing:

The protection extends beyond apps. While you browse the web, Google Play Protect warns you about potentially harmful websites and blocks known phishing sites, enhancing your online safety.

Integration with Google Play Store:

As part of the Google Play Store, Google Play Protect is deeply integrated into the Android ecosystem, making it a crucial component of the platform's security.

How to Check Your Device's Security:

To check the status of Google Play Protect on your Android device, follow these steps:

Go to "Settings" on your device.

Navigate to "Security" or "Biometrics & security" (the exact path may vary depending on your device).

Select "Google Play Protect."

Or you can always go to Google Play Store and search for Google Play Protect.

From here, you can manually scan your apps for security issues, ensuring that your device is up to date and free from potential threats.

And this should perfectly work for Sideload Apps, but a question still remains: why known and detected harmful apps could still be found in Google Play Store? 

Why don't they just remove them?

While that happen and knowing that Google Play Protect is a valuable tool in keeping your device secure, here are some additional tips to enhance your Android device's security:

Regular Updates: Keep your device's operating system and apps up to date to ensure you have the latest security patches.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Protect your accounts and personal data with strong, unique passwords or use a password manager.

Exercise Caution: Be mindful of the apps you download and the permissions you grant. Only install apps from reputable sources like the Google Play Store.

Secure Your Device: Set up a screen lock (PIN, pattern, fingerprint, or face recognition) to prevent unauthorised access to your device.

In a world where our lives are increasingly intertwined with technology, prioritising device security is paramount. By staying vigilant and using the tools provided, you can enjoy the benefits of technology while keeping your Android device safe and secure.

Remember, when it comes to security, knowledge and awareness are your best allies. Stay informed and take the necessary steps to protect your Android device and your digital life.

Source and further reading.

TechCrunch is part of the Yahoo family of brands. (2023, November 4). https://techcrunch.com/2023/11/04/google-play-android-real-time-app-scanning-sideload-apps/

Google Play Protect review. (2022, June 2). Tom’s Guide. https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/google-play-protect#:~:text=Google%20Play%20Protect%20may%20be%20the%20cheapest%20and%20easiest%20Android,third%2Dparty%20malware%20detection%20results.

Fedewa, J. (2023, November 4). How to sideload apps on Android. How-To Geek. https://www.howtogeek.com/313433/how-to-sideload-apps-on-android/