How to only install apps from official app stores

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MalwareHigh priority

About 5 minutes to complete

Only download apps from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, never from links in emails, text messages, or websites. Apps from unofficial sources bypass the security checks that Apple and Google apply to every app.

Step-by-step guide

Only ever download apps from the Apple App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).
If you receive a link in an email or text message asking you to install an app, do not tap it. Go to the App Store or Play Store directly and search for the app by name instead.
On Android: go to Settings → Apps → Special App Access → Install Unknown Apps and ensure no apps have permission to install from unknown sources. This setting should be off for all apps.
Be cautious of apps that claim to offer a premium service for free. These are often counterfeit versions of legitimate apps designed to steal your data.
Check app reviews and the developer name before installing anything. Legitimate apps from real companies have substantial review counts and a recognisable developer name.

5 steps

Why this matters

Apps installed from outside the official app stores, sometimes called 'sideloaded' apps, have not passed Apple or Google's security review. They can contain malware that steals your passwords, accesses your banking apps, or monitors your messages without your knowledge. The official app stores are not perfect, but they catch and remove the vast majority of malicious apps before they reach users.

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