How to Stop Samsung Phone From Downloading Apps and Games By Itself

Introduction

If your Samsung Galaxy phone is automatically downloading unwanted apps and games, it can be frustrating. This tutorial will guide you through the steps to stop this issue, ensuring that your device only installs apps you want.

Step 1: Check App Permissions

• Open the Settings app on your Samsung phone.
• Scroll down and select Apps.
• Tap on the three-dot menu in the top right corner and choose Special Access.
• Select Install Unknown Apps.
• Review the apps listed and ensure that only trusted apps have permission to install new applications.
• Switch off the permission for any app that you do not trust or recognize.

Step 2: Disable Auto Updates

• In the Settings app, navigate to Software update.
• Tap on Auto download over Wi-Fi and turn it off to prevent automatic downloads during updates.
• Alternatively, go to the Google Play Store:
  • Tap on your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • Choose Settings.
  • Select Network Preferences then Auto-update apps.
  • Choose Don't auto-update apps.

Step 3: Manage Google Play Store Settings

• Open the Google Play Store.
• Tap on your profile icon and select Settings.
• Go to General and find the Auto-update apps option.
• Ensure it is set to Don't auto-update apps.

Step 4: Check for Malware

• Install a reputable antivirus or malware detection app from the Play Store.
• Run a scan to check for any malicious software that could be causing unwanted downloads.
• Follow the app's recommendations to remove any detected threats.

Step 5: Reset App Preferences

• Go to Settings and select Apps.
• Tap on the three-dot menu and choose Reset app preferences.
• Confirm the action. This will reset all app preferences, including disabled apps, notifications, and background data restrictions.

Step 6: Factory Reset (Last Resort)

• If the problem persists, consider a factory reset.
• Backup your important data before proceeding.
• Go to Settings, select General management, then tap Reset.
• Choose Factory data reset and follow the prompts to reset your device.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively stop your Samsung phone from downloading unwanted apps and games automatically. Start with checking app permissions and managing your Google Play Store settings. If issues continue, scanning for malware or resetting your device may be necessary. Always ensure your phone's security settings are robust to prevent future occurrences.