Play Protect settings

[Jammy97]

Hi all,

What does "Improve harmful app detection" actually mean? Should it be on or off? 

Thank you! 

[arianwen27]

If you install an app on your phone that Google doesn't know about, like an apk file that hasn't been scanned before. On install, it gets sent to Google servers, they scan it, then tell you if it's safe or not. With it off, it doesn't get sent to Google servers. I'd have it on

[Windroid]

In other words, for the sake of keeping your phone and data safe, this option allows google to sample whatever apps you have on your phone.
If you only download the app from Google Play or Samsung store, keep this option off.
if you like to install apps from other sources that can be not so trustworthy, i.e., the app might hack your phone and steel your data, then keep this option on to let google check if the app is a safe one and trust worthy.

[keith30]

Have it on

[MNas04]

Would recommend switching it on. It does keep your phone safe from malware and other suspicious activity.

[Windroid]

True, but from another perspective, it reduces your privacy by giving Google more access to your device

[MNas04]

Kind of yes. I think it applies when you install apps outside official sources.

[Jammy97]

Thank you for this. I have turned it on.

[Jammy97]

Thank you. I use the Google Play Store and Galaxy Store. I have app detection turned on.

[Jammy97]

Thank you. I have it on.