While troubleshooting an Android smartphone, you discover that the user enabled the "Install unknown apps" permission to sideload a coupon-app APK from a third-party website. Since then, the phone displays intrusive pop-ups and transmits large amounts of data at night. From a security standpoint, what is the primary risk introduced by installing the application from an unknown source?
More rapid battery depletion because the app bypasses Doze mode.
Installation of malware that can steal data or control the device.
Inability to receive future Android over-the-air updates.
Permanent loss of warranty support from the mobile carrier.
Sideloading apps that are not vetted by Google Play increases the chance of installing malware. Third-party APKs can conceal code that steals data, sends premium SMS messages, or grants attackers remote control of the device. Official stores screen submissions and use Play Protect scanning, so the risk is markedly lower when apps come from trusted repositories. Battery drain, warranty status, and OTA updates are secondary concerns and not inherent security risks.
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What does sideloading mean in the context of Android devices?
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CompTIA A+ 220-1102 (V14)
Software Troubleshooting
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