Pop-up ads can interrupt your screen, drain your battery, and slow down your Android phone. These ads usually come from your browser or apps with aggressive ad permissions.
You can block them using built-in settings, clear harmful apps, or install ad blockers. Below is a quick comparison of the most effective options.
| Method | Best For | Steps | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrome Pop-Up Blocker | Browser-based ads | Settings > Site Settings > Pop-ups & Redirects | Google Help |
| App Notifications | App-generated ads | Settings > Apps > Disable Notifications | Avast |
| AdGuard App | System-wide ad blocking | Install and run AdGuard | AdGuard |
| Uninstall Suspicious Apps | Unusual or frequent ads | Settings > Apps > Uninstall | Bitdefender |
1. Block Pop-Ups in Google Chrome
If ads show up while browsing, Chrome might be the cause. You can stop them easily:
- Open Chrome on your Android phone
- Tap the three dots > Settings
- Go to “Site settings”
- Select “Pop-ups and redirects”
- Turn the switch off
2. Manage Notifications from Specific Apps
Apps like games or utilities may push pop-ups through the notification system. Here’s how to stop it:
- Open your phone’s Settings
- Tap “Apps” or “Apps & notifications”
- Select the app causing the problem
- Tap “Notifications” and turn it off
Special Tip for Samsung Users
On Samsung phones, check “Special Access” settings:
- Settings > Apps > Special Access
- Select “Appear on top”
- Turn off access for suspicious apps
3. Use an Ad-Blocking App
Some pop-ups bypass browser settings. Use trusted ad blockers to stop them:
- AdGuard: Blocks ads across apps and browsers
- Brave Browser: Built-in blocking with a secure browser
- AdGuard DNS: Use it under network settings for system-wide filtering
4. Clear Browsing Data
Old cache or cookies may trigger pop-ups. To clear them:
- Open Chrome
- Tap Settings > Privacy and security
- Select “Clear browsing data”
- Choose “Cached images” and “Cookies”
- Tap “Clear data”
5. Uninstall Problematic Apps
Did the pop-ups start after installing a new app? It might be the source. Uninstall it:
- Go to Settings > Apps
- Scroll to find suspicious apps
- Tap the app > Uninstall
6. Reset Settings or Factory Reset (Last Resort)
If nothing works, reset your device:
- Back up your data
- Open Settings > System > Reset options
- Select “Erase all data”
- Confirm and wait for your phone to restart
Why Am I Getting Pop-Up Ads on My Android Phone?
Pop-ups usually appear after installing free apps with ad libraries. Others may come from websites you visited or malware. Always download apps from trusted sources like Google Play.
How to Prevent Pop-Ups in the Future
- Install only reputable apps
- Use an ad-blocking browser like Brave
- Review app permissions regularly
- Keep your OS and apps updated
- Enable Google Play Protect
FAQs
How do I know which app is causing the ads?
Check your recent app installs. Use Safe Mode to spot apps that behave differently when disabled.
Are ad blockers safe for Android?
Yes. Use reputable ones like AdGuard or trusted browsers like Brave. Avoid unknown APKs.
Can I remove ads without installing anything?
Yes. Change Chrome settings, manage app notifications, and uninstall ad-heavy apps.
Will a factory reset remove all ads?
Yes, if the ads are caused by installed apps. But back up your data before resetting.
What is the best free ad blocker for Android?
Brave Browser and AdGuard DNS are reliable, free options with good performance.
