Security and privacy features on Galaxy phones and tablets
We take privacy very seriously around here. When it comes to protecting the information on your Galaxy phone or tablet, you’re in good hands. Your Galaxy offers numerous security features to keep your data secure from others. You can scan for potential threats or simply enable a security feature.
Note: Available screens and settings may vary by wireless service provider and software version.
Check up on your security and privacy
Note: Not all features will be available on all devices.
You can scan your device for threats and resolve any issues right from the Security and privacy screen. Navigate to and open Settings, then tap Security and privacy, and your device will automatically be scanned... The first time you visit this feature, you may need to tap Dismiss on the notification. Then, tap the following results to resolve the issues if necessary:
Lock screen: Create a PIN, Pattern, or Password for your device to restrict entry and protect your data. Tap Lock screen, then tap Screen lock, and then select your desired option. Follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
Note: You can set up Fingerprint security from here as well.
Account security: A security checkup for your Google and Samsung accounts. Tap the account to see any suggestions to improve your security.
Lost device protection: SmartThings Find helps you locate your missing Galaxy device, such as a phone, tablet, watch, or earbuds.
App security: To detect potentially harmful apps on your phone, tap App security, and then tap Google Play Protect. Some devices may also include App protection with an additional scanner.
Updates: Check your Galaxy for Security updates and Google Play system updates. Tap Updates, and then tap Security update to access the different update settings for your phone. From here, you can check for software updates, view your software update history, enable Smart updates, and use the Software Upgrade Assistant. Or, tap Google Play system update, and then tap Check for update or Download & install. Your phone may need to restart to finish installing. If prompted, tap Restart now.
Privacy: View your privacy permissions, adjust the Permission manager, and control access to the camera, microphone, and clipboard. Tap Other privacy settings to learn more about Samsung and Google's privacy protections.
Use additional security features
Note: Not all features will be available on all devices.
Whether you want to use biometrics to sign in to your Galaxy device or set up Samsung Pass, you can find everything you need in the Security and privacy menu. Navigate to and open Settings, and then tap Security and privacy. The following options will be available in the Additional security settings section:
Biometrics: View your options for unlocking your device and for verifying yourself when entering passcodes. You can select from Face recognition or Fingerprints. Tap your desired option, and then tap Continue. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your face or your fingerprint.
Auto Blocker: Options to block apps from unauthorized stores, enable app security checks, and disables commands sent over the USB cable. You can also enable extra protection in your messaging apps, and prevent software updates over USB.
Even more security options are available if you tap More security settings.
Secure Folder: If you need to store private or sensitive information, such as files and photos, you can use Secure Folder. This folder will stay locked so only you can access it.
Secure Wi-Fi: You can use Secure Wi-Fi when connecting to public or unsecured networks. Tap Secure Wi-Fi, then tap Continue, and then follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
Samsung Pass: When you are logged in to your Samsung account, Samsung Pass will keep your apps and accounts secure by authenticating your identity with biometric data. Samsung Pass will remember your login information for apps and websites as well.
Samsung Blockchain Keystore: Manage your private key when signing in to and using blockchain transactions. Tap Samsung Blockchain Keystore, then tap Continue, and then follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
Private Share: If you’re concerned about sending personal information, you can use Private Share to protect your messages and files. Only the people you choose will be allowed to see your information. Tap Private Share, then tap Continue, and then follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
Install unknown apps: This menu lets you install unknown apps if desired. Keep in mind that installing apps from this menu may put your phone and data at risk. It is recommended to install apps from the Play Store and Galaxy Store.
Encrypt or decrypt SD card: Encrypting your SD card will protect your data, since an encrypted SD card can only be read on the device that was used to encrypt it. Tap Encrypt or decrypt SD card, and then enter your security credentials if you have a screen lock set up. Review the information, and then tap Encrypt SD card. To decrypt the SD card, tap Decrypt SD card.
Note: This setting may not appear unless you have a SD card inserted in your phone.
Other security settings: Manage your preferences for additional security settings, such as password visibility, administrative apps, and credentials.
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