To stop pop-up ads on your Samsung phone, follow these steps:
Identify and Remove Ad-Generating Apps
- Pop-up ads often come from third-party apps recently installed or used on your phone.
- Go to Google Play Store > Menu (3 lines) > My apps & games > Installed > Sort by Last Used.
- Uninstall apps you suspect until ads stop appearing
Adjust Browser Settings to Block Pop-ups and Ads
For Google Chrome:
- Open Chrome > tap 3 dots > Settings > Site Settings > Pop-ups and redirects > toggle off.
- Then go to Ads and toggle off as well
For Samsung Internet Browser:
- Open Samsung Internet > tap 3 lines > Settings > Sites and downloads > toggle on Block pop-ups.
- Go back to Settings > Ad blockers > download and enable a recommended ad blocker
Disable Samsung-Specific Ad Features
- If you use Samsung Global Goals, ads may appear on your lock screen while charging. Disable this in Samsung Global Goals app > Settings > toggle off Global Goals whilst charging
- Opt out of Samsung’s personalized ads:
Settings > Privacy > Customisation Service > toggle off "Customise this phone" and "Customised ads and direct marketing".
Then go to Ads > toggle on "Opt out of Ads Personalisation"
Manage App Permissions and Notifications
- Go to Settings > Apps > Special Access > Appear on top and disable this permission for suspicious apps to prevent them from showing ads over other apps
- Disable notifications from apps that push ads, such as Samsung Push Service
Optional: Use Private DNS to Block Ads System-wide
- Settings > Connections > More connection settings > Private DNS > Select Private DNS provider hostname and enter:
dns.adguard.com
> Save and restart your phone
By combining these steps—removing problematic apps, adjusting browser and system settings, and opting out of personalized ads—you can effectively stop pop-up ads on your Samsung phone.