By utilizing proprietary algorithms that are always learning and adapting to new threats, Google Play Protect is updated on a regular basis to effectively combat the latest malware. It automatically scans your phone or tablet in the background, checking for harmful apps or other behaviors that could leave you vulnerable.
How Does Google Play Protect Work?
When you download a new app from the Google Play Store, Protect runs an in-depth safety check on it. If a newly downloaded app is deemed harmful in any way or if it violates Google’s Unwanted Software Policy, you receive a notification informing you of the potential problem before the installation process has completed. At this point you can choose to halt the download and remove any related files from your device, which is highly recommended. Google Play Protect also periodically scans your device for harmful apps that may have been previously installed, especially those that originated from sources other than the Google Play Store. If an app is considered to be an immediate threat, Google Play Protect may opt to disable or remove it right away even without your explicit permission. In either scenario, you receive a notification detailing the action that has been taken. In addition, any time an app has the ability to access your personal information, Play Protect alerts you to the fact that it is in violation of Google’s Developer Policy and recommends disabling or uninstalling it. Google Play Protect also monitors network connections and URLs that you visit through a browser, warning you whenever a web page or other transmission isn’t safe.
How to View Your Google Play Protect Status
Aside from sending notifications when necessary, Google Play Protect essentially does all of its work behind the scenes. You can take a look at which apps it’s recently scanned as well as its current status by following the instructions below.
How to Disable Google Play Protect
Enabled by default, Google Play Protect can be turned off at any point by taking these steps.
