Samsung Galaxy users must check settings now or risk 'harmful' device alert

23 October 2023 , 11:08

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A Google Play store error is causing Samsung users' messages app to crash

Millions of Samsung users need to check their phone settings—or risk an error which causes the Messages app to stop working. Last week, countless Samsung owners received a pop-up alert claiming that the Samsung Messages app had suddenly become 'harmful'. With the app in question being used for sending texts and other messages, it's a critical function of the phone and not something you'll want to lose access to.

The worrying issue was apparently caused by a temporary error with Google's Play Store servers, which power the 'Play Protect' feature that informs users about the safety of different apps.

A number of new Samsung Galaxy devices have just been released (SAMSUNG)

Samsung has said that the problem has been addressed, but some users are still receiving the notification and are having trouble getting to the their chats.

Commenting on the issue, Samsung said it was caused by a 'temporary failure of the Google server' and that the app has 'now been restored and can be used normally'.

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If you still have the pop-up appearing Samsung has advised those still affected by the bug need to reset their app preferences.

SamMobile explains you can do this by going to the Settings app, then hit 'Apps' and tap the three dots in the upper-right corner of the screen.

From here, you just need to select 'Reset app preferences' and then 'Reset' to confirm. This fix won't erase any of your existing app data but should allow you to use the Messages app again without any issues.

If you haven't been able to access you messages on your Galaxy phone it's worthing giving it a try.

Ciaran Daly