Is It Safe to Install APK Files? How to Verify an APK

By Editorial Team ·

Where the risk comes from

An APK is safe when it is the original file signed by the developer. Problems start when a file is repackaged with extra code.

Check the SHA-256 checksum

Every download page lists a SHA-256 checksum. Compare it with the file you downloaded using a hash checker app. If they differ, delete the file.

Check the signature

Android refuses to update an app when the new APK has a different signature. If an update fails with a “package conflicts” error, the file was not signed by the same developer.

Keep Play Protect on

Play Protect scans side-loaded apps as well. There is no reason to disable it.