many options
Android users can install most apps without using the official Google Play store, but the default setting blocks installations from external sources like apk files.
To turn this on, users should open the smartphone settings, choose Security, then Advanced settings, and finally Install applications from external sources. In that section, permissions to install software can be granted.
Where to find these apps? Popular sites such as APKPure, APKMirror, or Uptodown offer downloads that bypass Google Play. This approach is convenient, yet it carries a significant risk of malware infecting the device.
Malicious actors can create clone sites to distribute harmful software, and attackers may even compromise official sites to spread malware.
Experts from cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab emphasize that downloading official versions from trusted sources reduces risk. Official app stores or the developer’s website frequently check for malicious code, and updates pass similar scrutiny.
In the view of Dmitry Galov, a cybersecurity specialist at Kaspersky Lab, obtaining apps from unofficial sources raises the chance of malware infections.
Galov notes that third party app stores remain a primary vector for mobile infections. If the decision is made to bypass the official store, it is advised to verify that the software is available on the developer’s site and to download it from there if possible. Users should be cautious about the data the app requests and should not grant access to data unnecessary for operation. A reliable security solution on mobile devices is strongly recommended.
Some smartphones include alternative app stores such as the App Gallery or Galaxy Store. These are among the safer choices because official services manage the apps and updates, reducing risk for users.
Are you waiting to be blocked?
Blocking or disabling Google Play in Russia is technically possible, but predicting how realistic this is proves difficult, according to Mikhail Bogdanov, founder of the Koshelek.ru service.
He explains that outcomes depend on Google policy in the country. The company has at times focused on profit and revenue, and current restrictions may be temporary. Olga Bobrovskaya, marketing director of Gem4me, shares a similar view.
Google previously announced a temporary limit on the Google Play store for users in Russia starting March 10, 2021. It was reported that only free applications would be accessible to Russian users in the Play Market. This indicates that access restrictions could be partial and reversible, depending on regional decisions and policy changes.
Sergey Matusevich, director of web technologies development at Artezio, part of the LANIT group, argues that it is not feasible to completely block services in the modern digital landscape. He suggests that while access can be made harder, it is unlikely to be fully cut off. Android users can still obtain setup files from alternate sources or use store access through other channels, he notes. The issue of blocked access to Google Play is probably temporary, with no official target to block the app store announced.