How to Safely Download Android and iOS Games
Published
Quick Answer
The safest way to download Android and iOS games is to install them only through the official Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Avoid downloading games with third-party APK, IPA, or installer files. Before installing, check the developer name, permissions, safety information, and recent reviews on the official store listing you'll find.
Why the Source Matters
Google Play and the Apple App Store both perform automated and manual reviews of apps submitted to their stores, and can also remove apps from their listings at any time after their initial submission if they are found to be violating their policies.
Files downloaded from other sources do not go through the same distribution process. Using the official store listing is a better starting point for verifying an app and its developers before installation.
Step-by-Step: Installing a Game Safely
- Find the game on PogooGames and open its game page
- Tap the Google Play or App Store button to open up the game's official store listing
- Check that the developer name is correct and matches the developer known for the game
- Check the permissions and store availability for safety or data-sharing information
- Read recent reviews and watch out for comments about bugs, ads, unusual behavior, or other issues
- Install the app directly from the official store. Tap Install for Android, or Get on iPhone/iOS rather than an installer from a website
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Watch out for any of the signs below:
- A website prompting to download an APK or IPA file, rather than sent to Google Play or the App Store to install the game.
- A developer name differing from the game's expected or branded developer
- Permission requests in an app that don't seem relevant to its intended functions or theme, such as a puzzle game requesting your contacts
- A website or installer prompting to disable device security features before installing
- Recent reviews complaining that the app doesn't match its advertised features, has unexpected behaviors, or acts differently after installation
How PogooGames Fits In
PogooGames is an independent game discovery platform. We do not host or distribute APK, IPA, or other files.
Download buttons on PogooGames' pages link directly to a game's Google Play or App Store listing, and are therefore not distributing the game files themselves, but linking to the official app store for installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to download games from PogooGames?
PogooGames does not host or distribute game files. Buttons on PogooGames' pages link directly to the Google Play or App Store listing for each game, and can be installed from the official Google Play or App Store source.
Why shouldn't I download an APK file from a random website?
APK and IPA files obtained from non-official app stores do not go through the same distribution and review process as apps that are submitted directly to Google Play or the Apple App Store. This can make it harder to assess risk, authenticity, and potential unwanted modifications.
What should I look out for on a store listing before installing?
Check the developer name, permissions, and recent reviews on the Google Play or App Store listing before installing anything.
Do I need to disable security settings to install these games?
No. Games installed through the Google Play Store or Apple App Store should not require disabling a device's built-in security settings to install.