We wish to instal apps that aren’t available on the Play Store from time to time. The ability to sideload programmes is one of Android’s most important features. You may get apk files from a variety of places and sideload them onto your device.
Normally, Android prevents the installation of any third-party apps for security concerns. Even so, by allowing ‘Unknown Sources’ on Android, you can sideload Apk files. The real issue with using a third-party programme is that you never know whether or not the file is safe.
It’s usually a good idea to scan any Apk file before sideloading it onto an Android device. Using an internet virus scanner to check for threats assures that the files you’re about to sideload are safe.
2 ways to Scan APK Files to Check Whether they Have a Virus
So, if you’re seeking for a technique to scan Apk files to see if they’re infected with a virus, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll walk you through how to scan Apk files before installing them in this article. Let’s get this party started.
Using VirusTotal
VirusTotal is a free online virus scanner that checks your computer’s data. It does not require any installation because it is an internet scanner.
In the case of an Apk file, VirusTotal can assist in the detection of any viruses or malware that may be present.
Another advantage of VirusTotal is that it is entirely free. To use the security service, you don’t even need to register an account.
The service is equally simple to use: simply upload the Apk file and press the Scan button. If it detects any malware, it will notify you instantly.
You can also use the Google Play Store to get the VirusTotal Android app. The VirusTotal app for Android is completely free, but it can only scan programmes that you already have installed on your device.
Using MetaDefender
On the list, MetaDefender is another excellent online malware scanner to consider. You must upload an Apk file to MetaDefender, and it will be scanned by numerous antivirus engines.
MetaDefender’s scanning is faster than VirusTotal’s. Although scanning files straight from an Android smartphone is possible, it is more convenient to use the MetaDefender website from a PC.
MetaDefender’s strongest feature is that it can scan nearly everything, including URLs, Apk files, IP addresses, and more.
So, these are the two most effective services for scanning Apk files before to sideloading. I hope you found this material useful! Please pass it on to your friends as well. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments section below.