Protect your Galaxy device with the new Auto Blocker feature

Last Update date : Nov 01. 2023

The One UI 6 (Android version 14) operating system provides enhanced security through a feature called Auto Blocker, which is located in the Security and Privacy settings. When enabled, Auto Blocker protects your Galaxy device and data by preventing the installation of applications from unauthorized sources, checking for malware, and blocking malicious activity.

Samsung Galaxy phone with Security and Privacy icon.
Auto Blocker settings screen. Auto Blocker settings screen.

Step 1. Enable Auto Blocker by going to Settings > Security and Privacy > Auto Blocker > On.

McAfee End User License and McAfee Privacy Policy agreement. McAfee End User License and McAfee Privacy Policy agreement.

Step 2. Review and Agree to the End User License and Privacy Policy. Please note that this pop up window may or may not appear based on your country or region.

Note: When Auto Blocker is enabled, “Install unknown apps” cannot run and “App protection” cannot be disabled.

Auto Blocker protects your device and data from malicious apps by only allowing the installation of applications from authorized stores. If you attempt to install apps from unknown or unauthorized sources, you will receive a pop-up alert preventing you from continuing with the installation.

Pop-up alert for installing app from unknown source.

Note: The “Install unknown apps” settings menu is disabled and cannot be changed when Auto Blocker is switched on.

“App protection” is automatically enabled when Auto Blocker is turned on. This setting provides additional defense against viruses and spyware by performing security checks and scanning for suspicious activity each time a new application is installed. If security issues are detected, you will be alerted and given the option to block the installation of problematic apps.

 “App protection” settings screen.

Note: The “App protection” setting is enabled and cannot be turned off while Auto Blocker is on.

Auto Blocker ensures that malicious chargers, computers, and devices cannot send commands to your Galaxy device when connected via a USB cable. This safeguard prevents unauthorized access and manipulation of your device and data through USB commands.

“Block commands by USB cable” feature in Auto Blocker settings.

One of the advanced setting options within Auto Blocker is the ability to enable “Message app protection.” The Samsung Message Guard blocks images suspected of containing malicious media content or malware in messaging apps, including apps made by a third-party, to ensure that your device and data are well protected.

 “Messaging app protection” option in Auto Blocker advanced settings.

Note: This setting applies to third-party messaging applications.

Another advanced setting option that Auto Blocker provides is blocking software updates transferred through a USB cable. This feature prevents the installation of malicious system software from a source physically connected to your device.

“Block software updates by USB cable” option in Auto Blocker advanced settings.

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