Samsung explains how to fix the recent Messages 'harmful app' error

Some Galaxy device users closed the week with a Samsung Messages error preventing them from using the app. The error generated a device security pop-up claiming that Samsung Messages is harmful. As it turns out, a temporary failure of Google's servers was causing the error. It has since been addressed, but the issue may linger for some Galaxy device users. For them, Samsung provides a solution.

The problem described above appears to be related to the temporary failure of Google's servers and the Play Protect feature. As Samsung explains in one of its recent community posts, Galaxy device users who have turned off the Play Protect option that automatically disables harmful apps may still encounter the Samsung Messages problem. If so, they may have to reset app preferences to solve the issue.

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Here's how you can solve this Samsung Messages error

If your Messages app continues to misbehave, Samsung advises resetting app preferences.

To do this, open the Settings app on your Galaxy device. Then, access “Apps,” tap the three-dot menu button in the upper-right corner, select “Reset app preferences,” and tap “Reset” to confirm.

This action will reset preferences for disabled apps, notification restrictions for apps, background data restrictions, and permission restrictions. However, you will not lose your existing app data. Samsung says performing these steps should allow you to use the Messages app again.

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Mihai Matei - Senior Editor

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First Samsung device: SGH-A800

Mihai is a blogger and column writer at SamMobile. His first Samsung phone was an A800 which took a lot of beating, and a part of him still misses the novelty of the clamshell design. In his free time, he enjoys watching shows, documentaries, and stand-up comedy; listening to music, taking walks, and occasionally playing old(er) video games.

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