Google is Testing a New Free Virus Scanner for Android: Here’s How to Use It

Google already offers free virus protection for Android devices through Google Play Protect, but it seems the company is stepping up its security game with an additional layer of protection. According to MSPoweruser, Google is currently testing a new malware detection feature in its Chrome web browser for Android.

This extra protection is specifically aimed at safeguarding APK file downloads, ensuring users can install apps safely even when they come from sources outside the Google Play Store.

Why This New Feature Matters

While most Android apps and games are downloaded directly from the Google Play Store, some are distributed as APK packages from third-party sources. This gives users access to apps not available on the Play Store but comes with a significant risk—malware. APK files downloaded from unreliable sources may contain harmful software that Google Play Protect wouldn’t catch.

That’s why introducing a virus scanner for APK downloads in Chrome is a smart move, and now, you can give it a try.

How to Enable the New Virus Scanner

The new malware scanner for APK files isn’t yet available for all Chrome users by default. To try it out, follow these steps:

1. Install the Canary version of Chrome on your Android device.
2. Open Chrome and type “chrome://flags” in the address bar.
3. Search for “apk” in the flags section.
4. Enable the option labeled “Malicious APK download check.”

Once activated, Chrome will scan all APK files you download for malware. If any suspicious content is detected, you’ll receive a warning before proceeding with the installation.

For those who choose the “Enabled Telemetry only” option, the system will scan APK files only for users with Safe Browsing enabled. This allows Google to collect data on malicious downloads to enhance the feature before its full rollout.

When Will It Be Available for Everyone?

There’s no official timeline yet for when this new virus protection will be available to all users in the standard version of Chrome. For now, testing in the Canary version gives early adopters a chance to try out the feature and help refine it.