We thank our employees and partners for their diligence and commitment to ensuring business continuity for our customers.

Our top priority remains on the safety and well-being of our employees and partners, and we will continue to take all necessary measures to maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

This decision was made in accordance with our commitment to protecting the health and safety of our employees and partners, which remains our top priority.

We will also take all necessary measures, including leveraging our global manufacturing network, to ensure that our customers are not affected.

This issue involved ultrasonic fingerprint sensors unlocking devices after recognizing 3-dimensional patterns appearing on certain silicone screen protecting cases as users’ fingerprints.

To prevent any further issues, we advise that Galaxy Note10/10+ and S10/S10+/S10 5G users who use such covers to remove the cover, delete all previous fingerprints and newly register their fingerprints.

If you currently use front screen protective covers, to ensure optimum fingerprint scanning, please refrain from using this cover until your device has been updated with a new software patch.

A software update is planned to be released as early as next week, and once updated, please be sure to scan your fingerprint in its entirety, so that all portions of your fingerprint, including the center and corners have been fully scanned.

Thank you for your patience and we will strive to continuously improve product and service experiences for our users.

Samsung has taken the time to fully evaluate the product design, make necessary improvements and run rigorous tests to validate the changes we made. These design and construction improvements include:

• The top protective layer of the Infinity Flex Display has been extended beyond the bezel, making it apparent that it is an integral part of the display structure and not meant to be removed.

• Galaxy Fold features additional reinforcements to better protect the device from external particles while maintaining its signature foldable experience:
  • ⚬ The top and bottom of the hinge area have been strengthened with newly added protection caps.
  • ⚬ Additional metal layers underneath the Infinity Flex Display have been included to reinforce the protection of the display.
  • ⚬ The space between the hinge and body of Galaxy Fold has been reduced.

Along with these improvements, Samsung has also been continuously working to improve the overall Galaxy Fold user experience, including optimizing more apps and services for its unique foldable UX. Samsung is conducting final product tests to make Galaxy Fold available to consumers starting from September in select markets. Availability details will be shared as we get closer to the launch.

Galaxy Fold completely reimagines the smartphone, changing the way you interact, communicate and experience everyday life. Precisely refined, slender and encased in luxuriously finished materials, Galaxy Fold lets you totally immerse yourself to whatever you need, wherever you are in the palm of your hand. Access your essentials on the cover display while holding Galaxy Fold comfortably in one hand, and open it up to use multiple apps at once. Now, with Galaxy Fold, you can review charts while talking on a video call, and search information, all at once.

All of us at Samsung appreciate the support and patience we’ve received from Galaxy fans all over the world. Galaxy Fold is a device long in the making, and we’re proud to share it with the world and look forward to bringing it to consumers.

We are committed to enhancing our workplace environments and safety practices. We not only abide by strict laws and regulations, but also more rigorous standards that we set ourselves in Samsung Electronics’ Code of Conduct. We built our policy to ensure that all employees are protected and rewarded fairly, and that their rights are respected. We also require our suppliers to work in accordance with the Samsung Electronics Supplier Code of Conduct and we actively support them in managing compliance in their work environment.

Despite our best efforts and commitment to continuous improvement, issues can still arise. That is why we rigorously monitor compliance in our facilities, consult outside experts and regularly examine our working practices to identify areas for further improvement.

Earlier this month, South Korean newspaper Hankyoreh suggested that some of Samsung’s production facilities in Vietnam, India and Indonesia had violated several workplace standards. We took this allegation very seriously and would like to provide facts and clarifications regarding key claims:

– The report claimed that Samsung underpaid employees in the India and Indonesia factories. At all of our worksites, employees – including contract workers – are paid above the minimum wage and the levels set by law. They are also provided with an appropriate level of benefits and leaves. We greatly value our employees who help drive Samsung’s success, and are committed to helping them build their careers.

– The report said employees at Samsung’s facilities had not been aware of chemical substances used in the production process. Samsung makes information about chemicals, including Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), available and provides training for employees who handle chemicals, in full compliance with the laws and regulations of the countries in which we operate.

– The report alleged that an employee death at Samsung’s Thai Nguyen plant in Vietnam in 2016 was potentially related to overworking and chemical exposure. We are deeply saddened by the passing of our former colleague and extend our sincere condolences to the family. The working hours and conditions during her four-month employment complied with regulations, while an investigation by the Vietnamese authorities showed that her cause of death was not related to her employment at our factory.

– The report claimed that Samsung provides commuting buses, dormitory housing and other benefits as means to control employees and their behavior. That is simply not true. The benefits we provide support employees by giving them commuting and housing options. We also offer opportunities for continuous development both in and outside of work. This is what makes Samsung a great place to work, earning us recognition in many different countries.

We would also like to share a few examples of initiatives and programs that we have in place to ensure our compliance with global standards and regulations:

– Samsung Electronics is a member of the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) and we conform to the RBA Code of Conduct and its implementation methods, including due diligence across the company and our suppliers.

– In 2010, we established the Samsung Health Research Institute, which conducts research on work environment, manufacturing processes and materials to enhance our health and safety measures.

– Samsung has several guidelines in place to protect apprentices, trainees, immigrants and temporary workers. Due diligence and consulting with outside experts is conducted on a regular basis to monitor issues and prevent any potential human rights violations.

– Over 2018 – 2019, Samsung collaborated with Business for Social Responsibility (BSR) – a global non-profit organization specializing in human rights – to conduct a Human Rights Impact Assessment (HRIA) for Samsung Electronics Vietnam. Samsung is using the findings to put even more measures in place to improve employee health and safety, and pre-empt any potential issues.

– All of our worksites globally are obligated to follow the EU Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) and the EU’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) standards. We also provide regular training for employees who handle chemicals and conduct routine inspections of chemical storage and facilities management.

We have been operating manufacturing facilities in Vietnam, India and Indonesia for decades and the combined workforce in the three countries exceeds 100,000. We are proud that our success has allowed us to contribute to and become more integrated in the local communities. This growth would not have been possible if we had relied on sub-standard working practices.

We strive to meet the highest standards in employee health and safety everywhere. But despite our best efforts, unfortunate incidents can still occur in managing work hours and ensuring subcontractors meet safety standards. If and when compliance issues arise, we analyze and quickly pursue improvement measures to help prevent recurrence.

We also believe in promoting the rights of employees. Samsung’s labor and human rights policies value and embrace international human rights principles and standards, and the laws of the countries in which we conduct business.

In conformance to local law, employees have the right to form and join or not to join trade unions of their own choosing, to bargain collectively and to engage in peaceful assembly, as well as the right to refrain from such activities. We regret that there were issues in the past where our employees’ rights to organize were not fully respected.

We will strive to continuously improve our standards because we believe the success of our business comes from the success of our people.

While many reviewers shared with us the vast potential they see, some also showed us how the device needs further improvements that could ensure the best possible user experience.

To fully evaluate this feedback and run further internal tests, we have decided to delay the release of the Galaxy Fold. We plan to announce the release date in the coming weeks.

Initial findings from the inspection of reported issues on the display showed that they could be associated with impact on the top and bottom exposed areas of the hinge. There was also an instance where substances found inside the device affected the display performance.

We will take measures to strengthen the display protection. We will also enhance the guidance on care and use of the display including the protective layer so that our customers get the most out of their Galaxy Fold.

We value the trust our customers place in us and they are always our top priority. Samsung is committed to working closely with customers and partners to move the industry forward. We want to thank them for their patience and understanding.

According to publicly available information, the new proceeding is based on the same allegations used in two previous proceedings initiated by Sherpa in 2013 and 2016, which were both closed in favor of Samsung.

We believe it is our responsibility to hold ourselves and our suppliers to the highest standards of labor practices while strictly complying with local labor regulations and international labor standards.

Samsung upholds a zero tolerance policy with regard to child labor, both in our own facilities and those of our suppliers.

As part of our commitment to minimizing our environmental impact, we have been actively investigating a range of measures to increase our use of renewable energy and plan to announce a specific renewable energy strategy with measurable targets by August 2018.

First, devices shall be considered to be used as refurbished phones or rental phones where applicable.

Second, salvageable components shall be detached for reuse.

Third, processes such as metals extraction shall be performed using environmentally friendly methods.

Regarding the Galaxy Note 7 devices as refurbished phones or rental phones, applicability is dependent upon consultations with regulatory authorities and carriers as well as due consideration of local demand. The markets and release dates will be determined accordingly.

For remaining Galaxy Note 7 devices, components such as semiconductors and camera modules shall be detached by companies specializing in such services and used for test sample production purposes.

Finally, for left over component recycling, Samsung shall first extract precious metals, such as copper, nickel, gold and silver by utilizing eco-friendly companies specializing in such processes.

As part of our ongoing commitment to recycling, Samsung also plans to join the EU’s R&D and test efforts to develop new eco-friendly processing methods.

Samsung Electronics, as well as independent expert organizations who conducted their own investigations into various aspects of the Galaxy Note7 incidents, will share their findings. In addition, Samsung will discuss the new measures the company has implemented in response to the incidents.

The full press conference will be available via live-stream globally, and can be accessed through www.samsung.com/galaxy and Samsung Newsroom.

To take action to prevent any similar issues, we are introducing our new Samsung Migrant Worker Guidelines, which we have been developing with advice from the NGO, Business for Social Responsibility (BSR), effective as of today, December 12, 2016. We will be strictly applying and implementing these guidelines across our global operations as well as among our suppliers.

The intent of the guidelines is to eradicate any existing or potential of forced or coercive labor, slave labor or human trafficking of migrant workers either at Samsung or among any of our suppliers. As a member of the Electronics Industry Citizenship Coalition (EICC), we developed these guidelines in accordance with the Electronic Industry Code of Conduct (EICC, v.5.1) standards to protect human rights. We also respect the fundamental human rights clearly defined in international human rights principles and standards including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s guidelines for multinational enterprises.

Stipulated in the guidelines, both Samsung and its suppliers are required to comply with all local labor laws, Samsung’s Code of Conduct, and Samsung Supplier Code of Conduct, and to eradicate activities that interfere with worker’s rights. Samsung will manage and supervise suppliers and labor supply companies through regular on-site due diligence, monitoring, and training.

As a committed member of the global community, Samsung will continue in its efforts to both respect and protect human rights. Samsung has recognized the seriousness of the migrant worker issue, and although perfect compliance within all our supply chains, including our suppliers, will require ongoing vigilance, we are committed to ensuring and protecting all migrant worker rights through actions like the guidelines we are announcing today.

Link to Guidelines

We remain committed to working diligently with appropriate regulatory authorities to take all necessary steps to resolve the situation. Consumers with either an original Galaxy Note7 or replacement Galaxy Note7 device should power down and stop using the device and take advantage of the remedies available.

“Our number one priority is the safety of our customers. We are asking users to power down their Galaxy Note7s and exchange them as soon as possible,” says DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “We are expediting replacement devices so that they can be provided through the exchange program as conveniently as possible and in compliance with related regulations. We sincerely thank our customers for their understanding and patience.”

Although there have been only a small number of reported incidents, Samsung is taking great care to provide customers with necessary support. Samsung has identified the affected inventory and stopped sales and shipments of those devices. We are also collaborating with national regulatory bodies.

Customers who have Galaxy Note7 devices can replace their current device with a new device based on local availability. We encourage Galaxy Note7 customers to contact their place of purchase or call the designated call center locally as soon as possible.

To date (as of September 1) there have been 35 cases that have been reported globally and we are currently conducting a thorough inspection with our suppliers to identify possible affected batteries in the market. However, because our customers’ safety is an absolute priority at Samsung, we have stopped sales of the Galaxy Note7.

For customers who already have Galaxy Note7 devices, we will voluntarily replace their current device with a new one over the coming weeks.

We acknowledge the inconvenience this may cause in the market but this is to ensure that Samsung continues to deliver the highest quality products to our customers. We are working closely with our partners to ensure the replacement experience is as convenient and efficient as possible.

It is disappointing that the article raises both inaccurate and misleading claims about the use of trade secrets, while omitting up-to-date information that is pertinent to the matter.

While we have been clear that trade secrets have not been used to conceal information about toxins from workers, we do understand that this has been an ongoing concern for some workers.

This is why we reached agreement with the relevant parties – Banolim and the Family Committee – to resolve the concerns about trade secrets through the Ombudsman Committee, an independent third-party body which was announced publicly on Jan. 12, 2016.

The Committee has begun working toward a resolution since it began operation on Jun. 8, 2016. Thus it is unfortunate that the article is raising both inaccurate and misleading assertions when a plan is already in place to resolve this issue.

The article cites irrelevant cases to support its claims

In the case of Lee Hee-jin, the article claims that documents provided by Samsung “that could shed light on the case” were heavily redacted on the grounds of protecting trade secrets. This is not true. The reality is that Ms. Lee’s lawyer requested a 2013 document on occupational safety for a facility in Asan. Ms. Lee, however, was employed at a facility in Cheonan from 2002 to 2006. Thus the information contained in the document was irrelevant, both in regards to the location and period that Ms. Lee worked.

In the case of Sohn Kyung-joo, the article cited this example to claim that “cleanroom entrance logs, the sole way to prove his exposure to toxins at work, were destroyed after three months”. This is not true.

Firstly, entrance logs are irrelevant to the matter of toxin exposure. The cleanroom logs are kept for security purposes only. The data can only prove when someone was physically in the cleanroom and does not indicate the presence of or exposure to toxins.

Secondly, because entrance logs are for security purposes only and have no relation to the health and safety of workers, there are no regulations governing the preservation of this information. Samsung preserves a record of the logs as a voluntary measure only and considers three months to be an appropriate period of time of preservation of such information. Samsung strictly abides by all regulations concerning the saving of records.

Although this has been explained several times to the reporter, the article concluded that the cleanroom logs are the sole way to prove the employee’s exposure to toxins and implied that Samsung destroyed this data to intentionally conceal information.

The article inaccurately describes the compensation plan which contradicts publicly available information

The article states that the compensation plan proposed by Samsung last year covered “some medical fees and some income for workers”. This is not true. In accordance with the Mediation Committee’s guidelines, employees who meet the compensation criteria can receive full compensation for all medical expenses that have occurred since the diagnosis of their disease. All the details about this compensation plan are clearly outlined on the compensation website which can be accessed by the public.

Moreover, we would like to note that we are providing this support because it is the right thing to do – not because we have any legal or court-ordered mandate to do so.

All parties have already agreed to resolve issues around trade secrets through the independent , third-party Ombudsman Committee

Again, it is important to note that the method to resolve concerns around trade secrets has already been agreed upon by all three parties – Samsung, the Family Committee and Banolim.

The claim that Samsung blocked information necessary for employee illnesses to be classified as an industrial accident in order to receive worker compensation has been made by Banolim in the past.

Concerning this matter, we have communicated with the reporter on multiple occasions that the chemical information which Samsung has been unable to disclose is what our suppliers deemed as trade secret and refrained from disclosure. Suppliers are not required to reveal information deemed a trade secret, however they are required to disclose whether their products contain any toxic substance. This means that even if a supplier cites trade secrets to withhold information, the chemical product provided to Samsung has been certified as not containing any toxic substance.

This is also entrenched in Korea’s Occupational Safety and Health Act, which states that chemical substances that have been determined by the Ministry of Employment and Labor to cause serious illnesses to workers cannot be classified as trade secrets.

Despite these assurances, we understand that there have been ongoing concerns expressed by workers. This is why the three parties have agreed to resolve this issue together through the independent Ombudsman Committee.

Moreover, we have also taken the step to provide comprehensive support to former employees who apply for workers compensation by sharing any information which is required for a workers compensation claim. We have also been offering support through a certified labor lawyer to assist with administrative legal tasks.

To realize these mutually agreed-upon plans to resolve this matter, the independent Ombudsman Committee has since begun operation.

Since the article was first published by the AP on Aug.10, some of our corrections have now been reflected in the article. However, it is unfortunate that the original was widely picked up by media outlets around the world and still contains factual inaccuracies.

The claim that Samsung Electronics intentionally blocked workers from accessing chemical information pertaining to workplace health and safety, or illegally prevented the disclosure of such information, is not true. We have fully cooperated with the court and the Korea Workers’ Compensation & Welfare Service by transparently disclosing all chemical information required and we will continue to do so.

Concerning assertions that Samsung intentionally withheld information under the justification of trade secrets, or that trade secrets have been used to conceal the use of toxic substances by Samsung:

• Suppliers are not required to reveal information deemed a trade secret but they are required to disclose whether their products contain any toxic substance. This means that even if a supplier cites trade secrets to withhold information, the chemical product provided to Samsung has been certified as not containing any toxic substance.
• This is also entrenched in Korea’s Occupational Safety and Health Act, which states that chemical substances that have been determined by the Ministry of Employment and Labor to cause serious illnesses to workers cannot be classified as trade secrets.
• Moreover, as an additional step, Samsung also conducts tests on materials received from suppliers for traces of toxic chemicals. 

Concerning the launching of an ombudsman committee, which AP noted in its article, we would like to add the following information:

• On Jan. 12, 2016, a comprehensive agreement was reached between Samsung Electronics and the two organizations representing former employees and their families – the Family Compensation Committee and Supporters for the Health And Rights of People in the Semiconductor industry (SHARPS) – to establish an independent, third-party Ombudsman Committee.
• The role of the Committee is to assess workplace safety within our semiconductor facilities in Korea and release reports on any areas for improvement. The Committee was officially launched on Jun. 8. Moving forward, Samsung will faithfully implement any proposed improvements from the Ombudsman and we have already created a fund of KRW 100 billion for financial aid and to carry out recommendations from an independent, third-party Mediation Committee.

However, Samsung Electronics has no plan to sell Samsung Medison and there has been no such internal review for sale as the report claimed.

The report inferred the basis of the possible sale that the Head of Health & Medical Equipment Business used to take the CEO role of Samsung Medison but the CEO post has been vacant.

The President of Health & Medical Equipment Business of Samsung Electronics, Mr. Dong Soo Jun, is currently overseeing the business of Samsung Medison and expected to be an official CEO of Samsung Medison through a legitimate process at the general shareholders’ meeting and board meeting.

Samsung Electronics considers the medical equipment business one of core businesses and is committed to expanding the business with Samsung Medison.

Dong Soo Jun
President of Health & Medical Equipment Business

1. Is it safe for people to work in Samsung Electronics’ semiconductor plants?

Yes, of course. We work hard to ensure the health and safety of all employees. For 40 years and counting, we have innovated new practices and advanced responsible chemical and process safety management both in our facilities and across the semiconductor industry. We operate state-of-the art systems, including rigorous chemical management, at all of our semiconductor fabrication plants worldwide.

We meet industry environment, health and safety (EHS) standards across all of our semiconductor fabrication plants, and our on-going ambition is to invest in finding better standards for ourselves and the industry. We have innovated many of the processes and controls that are now standard in the industry and continue to look for further enhancements.

For instance, in addition to being the first to develop and implement real-time, 24/7 chemical monitoring in 2007, we operate highly effective filtration and ventilation systems at all times in our semiconductor fabrication facilities, and these systems are capable of eliminating any potentially dangerous chemicals in real-time. Therefore, the cleanliness of the air within our facilities is equivalent to or better than that we breathe in our general surroundings.

2. How does Samsung Electronics monitor the safety in its semiconductor fabrication plants?

Our dedicated team of more than 500 EHS specialists oversees our operations and conducts regular inspections. This oversight ensures that each Samsung Electronics facility complies with the most stringent regulations. For instance, because of sheer caution and strict management of chemicals, we maintain exposure levels below one-tenth of permitted legal requirements. In addition to our routine safety inspections, credible third parties verify our inspections results regularly. Government agencies also conduct frequent and unannounced audits at all our semiconductor fabrication plants.

(*Samsung’s chemical management infographics)

3. Do you educate and inform your workers about the safety and the risks related to their job?

Every employee is required to participate in health and safety training. We customize each employee’s training for his or her role from more than 120 total courses offered, ranging from handling chemicals to ISO/OSHAS protocols and emergency response. Employees begin training when they are initially hired and continue to receive training on a monthly basis throughout their careers at our company. We also partner with more than 20 external institutions to ensure that we are offering the best training to our people

4. Does Samsung Electronics use benzene in its semiconductor manufacturing process?

Benzene is an elementary petrochemical that is a component in everyday products, such as plastic, synthesized rubber, gasoline, and detergents. But studies have found that when exposed through the air, benzene may increase the risk of certain illnesses, including cancer. In this regard, Benzene is strictly prohibited within the semiconductor industry and we have never used the chemical in our semiconductor operations.

However, a 2009 consulting project, suggested by the Korean Ministry of Labor and led by an academic team from Seoul National University, found trace amounts of the chemical (average 0.33ppb) that were considerably lower than the industry exposure standard (1,000ppb). If Benzene is created as a by-product of production process by chance, it is highly unlikely for Samsung employees to be affected by Benzene, in that its detected level was the similar amount found in everyday products and the usual air environment (0.1~10.0ppb).

To make sure, re-examination of the same sample was carried out by several laboratories in Korea and an internationally-certified test lab, which found no traces of benzene. Out of an abundance of caution, Samsung continues to closely monitor for evidence of benzene as part of our chemical management and monitoring system.

5. Does Samsung disclose the names of its chemicals used in its semiconductor plants?

Semiconductor fabrication is a highly complex and technical process that uses chemicals and potentially hazardous materials. However, we have a very strict hazardous materials policy and we closely regulate chemical exposure throughout the manufacturing process, from storage to disposal.

Also, we carefully select, test and cross-check materials and keep chemical exposure levels at one-tenth of the legal requirements; and those levels are regularly verified by independent third parties, thereby ensuring that any exposure remains significantly below any level that could cause harm to people and the environment.

We always strictly evaluate our safety controls to ensure employees and neighboring communities are not exposed to any potentially harmful chemicals. We have also developed an environmental safety index to inform the company’s important stakeholder groups with essential environmental information.

Before a new chemical substance is introduced, it is analyzed for physical and chemical characteristics, potential health hazards and any associated risks. Following analysis, appropriate health and environmental safety controls and measures for storage, use, disposal and recycling are implemented. Plus, chemicals are stored outside of the cleanroom and chemical levels are monitored in all facilities in real-time, which was a first in the semiconductor industry.

While contents of a number of materials have remained undisclosed and protected as trade secrets, we require that all of our suppliers comply with our strict hazardous materials policy and test every chemical they supply us for compliance.

Litigation

6. What is Samsung Electronics’ position on the rulings of the Seoul Administrative Court, saying it infers a “considerable causal link” between leukemia and working conditions at Samsung’s semiconductor fabrication plants?

While we respect the rulings of the Seoul Administrative Court, it is important to note that the Court acknowledged that there is no scientifically proven correlation between workplace environment and employee illness. .

In fact, independent research conducted by KOSHA, the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, and other consultants further confirmed no evidence of illness caused by the semiconductor work environment.

In addition, we were not a defendant in the cases heard by the Seoul Administrative Court, but were named a party of interest in the case by the Court. In this role, we cooperated with the Korea Worker’s Compensation and Welfare Service (KCOMWEL) to properly present the facts.

Training & Employees Welfare

7. What actions has Samsung Electronics taken since this issue was first raised?

We hold ourselves and our suppliers to the highest health and safety standards, and consider our people our greatest asset. We maintain a world-class environment, safety and health infrastructure and rigorous standards to safeguard our employees’ well-being. The company has earned and maintains the ISO 14001 (1996) and OHSAS 18001 (1999) certifications for our global business practices, affirming that we implement effective environmental and employee safety controls over our business processes and activities.

In fact, in 2014 alone, Samsung invested more than USD 1 billion for continued upkeep and improvement of our semiconductor infrastructure and we will continue to follow up on our commitment with considerable amounts of investments every year.

To improve health and safety measures, we also established the Samsung Health Research Institute, a research organization comprised of specialists in areas including health, medicine, chemical engineering and environmental health. The institute has conducted more than 180 research projects since its opening in 2010, to ensure healthy working environments and improve employees’ well-being, and raise the standard for assessing workplace health and safety.

8. Does Samsung also work with independent third parties to verify safe working conditions?

Since 2007, Samsung has cooperated in epidemiological investigations conducted by government bodies including the Occupational Safety & Health Research Institute (OSHRI) of the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA) to ensure that we are providing the safest possible environment for our employees. These investigations did not find correlation between leukemia and the semiconductor work environment.

Environ, a leading environmental consultancy, conducted a study on Samsung’s semiconductor workplace environment, in which it concluded that chemical and physical agent exposure levels were within industry standards, and that historical workplace exposure was unlikely to have caused the diagnosed cancers. The study was reviewed by an external Scientific Advisory Panel of experts from institutions including the Harvard School of Public Health, Yale University School of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute and Mt. Sinai School of Medicine. Results were presented at the International Commission on Occupational Health (March, 2012) and the American Industrial Hygiene conference and Expo (June, 2012).

Samsung Electronics’ Health Research Institute continues to conduct longer term research to inform continuous improvement to our employee health and safety program

9. What kind of support does Samsung Electronics currently provide to current and former semiconductor employees who have fallen ill or have passed away?

During or after their period of employment at our semiconductor fabrication plants, some employees developed diseases that were difficult to treat. We are deeply saddened by the loss of those who were members of the Samsung family, and are concerned about those who continue to battle illness. In this regard, Oh-hyun Kwon, the CEO and Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics, acknowledged on May 14, 2014 that the speed with which Samsung was addressing the concerns of former employees and their families needed to be accelerated. Through this apology about the length of time it was taking to address concerns and reiterating Samsung’s empathy, he reemphasized how the best interest of the employees has been at the heart of every decision the company made.

As is standard practice and a sign of respect in Korea, we provide support to employees who become ill while employed with Samsung. Support may include financial aid, medical expense assistance and insurance coverage. These efforts were made because it is the right thing to do — not because we have any legal or court-ordered mandates to do so.

Open Dialogue for Resolution 

10. What was the nature of the discussions with the affected families and participating parties?

Samsung is committed to providing all of our employees a safe and healthy work environment in every facility we operate around the world. It is truly sad and heart-breaking for us that some of Samsung’s former employees have passed away or are coping with difficult-to-treat diseases after having worked at our semiconductor manufacturing facilities in Korea. We have been faithfully committed to working with the affected families to determine how best to help them, and continue to actively engage in discussions with the families and participating parties.

Samsung is trying to do the right thing to relieve the concerns and hardships of former employees suffering illnesses and their families. We wish we had more effectively conveyed our compassion and addressed such concerns earlier and with more urgency while we communicated that there is no correlation between their illnesses and the workplace.

In this spirit, an independent, third-party Mediation Committee led by a former Supreme Court judge was formed in December, 2014, to oversee open dialogue between Samsung and the parties involved, conducting in-depth hearings and assessing the parties’ respective proposals.

11. What is the current status and what’s next?

In response to the Mediation Committee’s proposal, Samsung Electronics created a company-run fund of KRW 100 billion for financial aid as well as preventive measures on workplace safety, and representatives from affected families have been participating in the financial support program. As of November, 2016, more than 160 people applied and 120 people have received financial support through the program as well as a heartfelt message of sympathy from Samsung’s CEO.

In January, 2016, Samsung Electronics reached an agreement with the Family Committee and the Supporters for the Health And Rights of People in the Semiconductor industry (SHARPS) on the mediation proposal to establish an independent, third-party Ombudsman Committee. The Ombudsman Committee was launched in June, 2016 to carry out an overall audit of Samsung Electronics’ semiconductor facilities and develop plans to improve health and safety conditions.

Samsung will faithfully implement proposed improvements from the Ombudsman Committee and remains fully committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our valued employees.

For more information, please visit www.samsung.com/safety.

*First Posted on February 3rd, 2015

*Updated on March 24th, 2015: Added Mediation and Open Communication section

*Updated on April 20th, 2015: Updated Safety at Samsung and Training & Employees Welfare 

*Updated on May 14th, 2015: Updated Training & Employees Welfare

*Updated on August 3rd, 2015: Updated Safety at Samsung, Litigation, and Training & Employees Welfare, Changed Section Title of Mediation and Open Communication to Open Dialogue for Resolution 

*Updated on January 22nd, 2016 : Updated Safety at Samsung and Open Dialogue for Resolution

*Updated on December 12nd, 2016 : Updated Open Dialogue for Resolution

After discussions that lasted more than a year, the parties agreed to establish an independent, third-party Ombudsman Committee that will conduct a thorough inspection of Samsung’s facilities and release reports on any areas for improvement.

Samsung will faithfully implement proposed improvements from the Ombudsman Committee and remains fully committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our valued employees.

So far, Samsung has created a fund of KRW 100 billion for financial aid and workplace safety measures based on the recommendations of the Mediation Committee. Samsung opened its financial support program, for which more than 150 people have applied and to date, more than 100 people have accepted the company’s financial support. Along with the financial aid, every recipient has received a heartfelt message of sympathy from Samsung’s CEO.

Related stories:

[FAQ] Employee Health and Safety at Semiconductor Facilities

Contrary to the assertions in this article, Samsung is trying to do the right thing to relieve the concerns of patients and their families – specifically, by providing a speedy system for financial support.  We hope to deliver what has been asked of us – which is a timely, comprehensive program to provide sufficient support.

In the interests of full transparency, we have decided to publish the following information – much of which was shared with the reporter during our lengthy meetings:

According to the article, Samsung is “not conceding a link between the chemicals used in its semiconductor factories and cancer” but this is something that has simply not been scientifically proven despite several studies.

Samsung opened its fabrication lines for several research programs, including the epidemiological investigation that was conducted by Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA, 2007~2008) and a research program carried out by Environ on the work environment (2010~2011). We provided all relevant materials and data that were needed to conduct the research. There was also a one yearlong study conducted by external experts at SK Hynix in 2014.  None of the studies found a correlation between the workplace environment and employee illness. Financial support is being provided regardless of causation.

The article claims that more than 200 people who worked at Samsung’s semiconductor and LCD factories and suffered chronic illnesses have contacted or sought help from Banolim, but this number is unverified.

The numbers Banolim claims – of both the alleged victims and alleged deaths – have never been verified.  Many of these claims are anonymous or are under incomplete names.

According to the article, Samsung does not disclose all the chemicals it used, but under law we do disclose all harmful chemicals used in our facilities.

According to Korean Law (유해화학물질관리법, TOXIC CHEMICALS CONTROL ACT), companies are to disclose the list of ALL harmful chemicals. Companies are also given strict regulations to safely manage and use these harmful chemicals. Samsung abides to all relevant laws regarding environmental safety at its facilities.

Samsung has a dedicated team of more than 500 EHS specialists who oversee our operations and conducts regular inspections. This oversight ensures that each Samsung Electronics facility complies with the most stringent regulations. (For more information, read: Employee Health and Safety at Semiconductor Facilities)

The article suggests that Samsung was deficient in monitoring for benzene only after 2012, but benzene has never been used in our facilities and has not been detected since we started monitoring.

Benzene was never used in our semiconductor production facilities. The only reason we started monitoring benzene levels was because Seoul National University Professor Dr. Baek Do-myeong, a supporter of Banolim, suggested it could have been linked to employee illnesses.  However, Benzene has not been detected in our facilities since we started monitoring in 2012. (For more information: http://www.samsung.com/semiconductor/minisite/EHS/resource_05_benzene.html)

The article expresses opinions that an external organization is necessary but Samsung has set out reasons why this is not the best solution. 

First, it is important to acknowledge that Samsung Electronics created a fund of KRW 100 billion ($ 85.8million) which is the amount recommended by the Mediation Committee. We also agreed to the majority of recommended disease categories that will be covered by the fund and the criteria for determining amounts of financial aid. In good faith, we expanded the scope of financial aid by explicitly including retirees who had been employed at our partner companies although these retirees were not specified in the recommendation.

We are not funding an independent body as recommended by the Mediation Committee because the incorporation of such an association and its operational costs and other expenses would consume up to 30% of the fund, a sum of KRW 30 billion ($25.2million). Samsung Electronics believes the greatest percentage of the fund possible should be directed toward providing financial aid. For this reason, we believe that it is in the best interest of families and patients to direct more funds to meeting their needs, which cannot be achieved through an independent fund.

The involved parties, including patients and their families, also oppose the incorporation of such an association. Specifically, the Family Committee that proposed the creation of the Mediation Committee has objected to the distribution of financial aid through the proposed association, stating to the press as follows; “The attempt to create an incorporated association and make us apply for compensation to this association means that we must wait for a long time again.”

According to the article, Samsung does not consider miscarriage and infertility for financial support, while SK Hynix does, but that is misleading.

The reason miscarriage and infertility were not part of the criteria for financial aid is because Samsung has already been aiding current employees with such hardships, just as SK Hynix announced.

The article tries to link actions of the Korean media with Samsung’s actions or with our advertising spend, but this is completely unfounded. 

Samsung has never encouraged any Korean media to report stories attacking Banolim.  Samsung is committed to open and transparent communications with the media and to providing correct and factual information which the media can determine if and how to use in their reports.

This article was updated to accurately state the title of the relevant Korean Law:
유해화학물질관리법, TOXIC CHEMICALS CONTROL ACT

Samsung has strong business ties with major operators in US, Japan, Korea, countries that have a leading LTE(4G) market, and we also have business relations with major operators in South Asia and Europe. Samsung is recognized as an innovative player for developing and commercializing many of the world’s first technologies through 2G, 3G and 4G.

At the same time, Samsung Electronics has made significant investments in mobile telecommunications systems and devices. Overall, tens of billions of dollars in investments were made every year, which contributed to accelerating innovation in next generation telecommunication technologies (SDN/NFV, 5G).

Samsung will continuously commit to bring advanced telecommunication technologies to the world.

The article raised questions as to the effect of this on the recently launched Samsung Pay service. The first thing to know is that Samsung Pay was not impacted and at no point was any personal payment information at risk. This was an isolated incident that targeted the LoopPay office network, which is a physically separate network from Samsung Pay. The LoopPay incident was resolved and had nothing to do with Samsung Pay.

It’s worth reiterating that the reported incident was related to LoopPay’s office network which handles email, file servers and printing within the company. This network is physically separate from the production network that handles payment transactions and run by Samsung.

The incident involved three servers on LoopPay’s internal office network.

As soon as the incident was discovered, LoopPay followed their standard incident response procedures and acted immediately and comprehensively. LoopPay brought in two independent professional security teams. LoopPay immediately identified and quarantined the targeted devices, conducted a thorough and extensive sweep of LoopPay’s entire system, and put additional safeguards in place.

Again, Samsung, Samsung Pay, and Samsung users were not affected.

We’re confident that Samsung Pay is safe and secure. Each transaction uses a digital token to replace a card number. The encrypted token combined with certificate information can only be used once to make a payment. Merchants and retailers can’t see or store the actual card data.

Security is a number one priority at Samsung —and always will be. Samsung is committed to securing and protecting user data to the highest industry standards.

Samsung Pay is off to an amazing start. Our beta test and our launch showed that customers have been overwhelmingly satisfied with their experience. We’re proud to offer the only mobile payment option that works almost anywhere you can swipe or tap a card today.

This vulnerability, as noted by the researchers, requires a very specific set of conditions for a hacker to be able to exploit a device this way. This includes the user and the hacker physically being on the same unprotected network while downloading a language update. Also, on a KNOX-protected device there are additional capabilities in place such as real-time kernel protection to prevent a malicious attack from being effective.

So the likelihood of making a successful attack, exploiting this vulnerability is low. There have been no reported customer cases of Galaxy devices being compromised through these keyboard updates.* But as the reports indicate, the risk does exist and Samsung will roll out a security policy update in the coming days.

In addition to the security policy update, we will continue to work with related parties such as SwiftKey to address potential risks going forward.

The security policy updates will begin rolling out in the coming days

All flagship models since Galaxy S4 have the KNOX security platform installed and have the KNOX platform protection enabled when you turn the device on.  One of these protections is Security Enhancements (SE) for Android which enforces a number of mandatory security settings on the device.

Samsung KNOX has the capability to update the security policies of our devices, over-the-air, to invalidate potential vulnerabilities caused by this issue. The security policy updates will begin rolling out in a few days.

Make sure your device automatically receives security policy updates

The security policy update will be pushed to the user. The user must agree to receive the security policy update. To ensure your device receives the latest security updates, go to Settings > Lock Screen and Security > Other Security Settings > Security policy updates, and make sure the Automatic Updates option is activated. At the same screen, the user may also click Check for updates to manually retrieve any new security policy updates. **

For the devices that don’t come with KNOX by default, we are currently working on an expedited firmware update that will be available upon completion of all testing and approvals. ***

* As of June 16, 2015 (Suwon, Korea), when the issue was first publicly reported

** Exact menu path may vary by model

*** Availability and schedule may vary by factors including, but not limited to, model, region and service carrier

First, the video assumes a very specific condition – 110lbf (50kgf), which rarely occurs under normal circumstances. The normal force that generated when a person presses the back pocket is approximately 66lbf (30kgf). Our internal test results indicate that the Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 edge are not bendable even under 79lbf (32kgf), which is equivalent to putting pressure to snap a bundle of five pencils at once.

Secondly, even though both front and back sides are exposed under the same level of pressure in normal circumstances, this test does not show the strength of the back side. Some smartphones have different durability in each the front and back sides respectively.  SquareTrade has only tested the front side, which may mislead consumers about the entire durability of smartphones.

For this reason being, Samsung will officially deliver our statement to SquareTrade and ask them to conduct the stress test again which targets both front and back sides, and open the test result to the public.

All our devices are put rigorous high-quality validation tests before they are delivered to consumers. These tests include various conditions, such as dropping, bending, and breakage. And we are confident that all our smartphones are not bendable under daily usage.

Below is a 3-point bend test Samsung carried out.

http://youtu.be/eKburDQAolA

The news article contended that part-timers, acting as “fanboys”of Samsung smartphones, participated in the launching event. However, our findings have indicated that under no circumstances has anyone been hired or given money to attend the event. In fact, the more than 1,100 attendees, including consumers and industry officials, have all been formally invited to the Shanghai Culture Square where the event took place.

In the wake of the investigation, the media outlet that broke the story corroborated our findings and soon retracted the erroneous story. Separately, we are seriously considering whether to request the media outlet to take further action in the matter by issuing a correction. We will also continue our efforts to find out how this story came to be.

To improve suppliers’ work environment, Samsung Electronics (Samsung) established a Supplier Code of Conduct based the Electronic Industry Citizenship Coalition (EICC) Code of Conduct and has gone on to share it with its suppliers.

In 2015, the company updated the Supplier Code of Conduct to cover provisions regarding the protection of migrant workers’ rights in accordance with revisions to the EICC Code of Conduct.

In addition, Samsung created a Supplier Code of Conduct Guide to provide all suppliers in a bid to help them comply with the Supplier Code of Conduct as they carry out law-abiding management practices. The guide allows suppliers to check on details concerning action plans for work environment management by themselves.

Moreover, Samsung also visited suppliers in person to offer on-site training on the Supplier Code of Conduct and detailed action plans. To prevent Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) accidents at supplier worksites, Samsung separately produced a Supplier EHS Code of Conduct Guide which it then distributed to suppliers. The company also distributed a Supplier EHS Manual and conducted training to encourage suppliers to single out EHS risks and ensure improvement activities on their own.

2. How does Samsung Electronics ensure that its suppliers meet labor standards?

Samsung monitors all risks associated with work environments at all suppliers that are participating in production processes of its products on a real-time basis. Suppliers must meet worksite standards with regard to labor & human rights and EHS as stipulated in the Supplier Code of Conduct, and based on industry-wide standards such as the EICC. This is supervised through on-site audits by Samsung and a third party’s strict verification process. In addition, Samsung reflects the outcome of the evaluation on work environment risks annually in a comprehensive supplier evaluation. The company uses this as a key factor when deciding whether to continue our relationship with suppliers.

[Step 1] Self-assessment

Suppliers identify areas of improvement through self-assessments by going over a total of 104 checklist items based on EICC standards at least once a year.   After Samsung suppliers identify any self-assessment weaknesses, they immediately devise improvement tasks that are implemented voluntarily by suppliers. Samsung normally conducts on-site verifications on 10 percent of all suppliers and the company plans to extend our on-site verifications to 20 percent of our suppliers in this year.

[Step 2] On-site Audit

Samsung verifies the self-assessment of its suppliers and support the effective corrective measures for ongoing improvements.

In 2015, Samsung conducted on-site audits at 455 suppliers that were selected as ‘priority suppliers’ in consideration of their location, trade size, past identified issues, and self-assessment results. Together with regular on-site audits, Samsung also conducted an average of 4.8 surprise and special inspections per supplier in 2015, including audits concerning child employment, the recruitment process, and employment of interns and student workers during vacation periods. Samsung supports the suppliers with policy development and provides consulting for corrective actions. In 2015, 95 percent of improvement tasks raised throughout the year have been implemented.

[Step 3] Third-party Audit

To ensure quality and accountability of our supply chain management process, targeted high-risk suppliers undergo independent on-site audits using qualified third-party auditors that follow the Electronic Industry Citizenship Coalition (EICC) validated audit process. In 2015, audit was conducted in a “semi-announced” type, with specific audit schedules not provided in advance to prevent any kind of preliminary preparation prior to the inspection and to ensure more accurate verification. For six suppliers, auditors conducted separate interviews with their employees outside the company premises so that the interviewees could be more candid when describing their work environment and without interruption.

Samsung requires all suppliers to address every improvement task identified through third-party audit within three months. Suppliers then need to come up with corrective measures, such as complementary policies, employee education and/or site improvements, before fully carrying them out. Results are verified by a panel of experts through a closure audit three months later.

3. Could you provide the portion of Samsung’s in-house manufacturing by the company’s own manufacturing facilities in global?

A large majority of Samsung’s products are manufactured at Samsung-owned facilities. As ninety percent of Samsung’s parts are supplied in-house by Samsung’s own manufacturing facilities, we can directly provide world-class working conditions throughout our global manufacturing network and comply with international labor standards in all regions in which we operate.

4. Do you provide any education program for supplier companies? How many workers have got trainings so far?

Samsung Electronics offers its suppliers several educational programs including management and leadership training. Specifically, Samsung Electronics provides training which covers 13 categories in six sectors, from labor and human rights to diversity and anti-discrimination. Additionally, Samsung has created training programs specific to four regions: China, Southeast & Southwest Asia, the Americas, and Europe. In 2015, a total of 854 employees (including those taking more than one program) completed training. In 2016, we will be providing training to all employees at every production site with the goal of training 100 percent of our employees in at least one program.

Also, for the convenience of production employees, we have developed online training programs and video content in numerous languages, including English, Chinese, and Vietnamese. Through this initiative, Samsung and its suppliers have solidified a joint desire to take responsibility in ensuring safe work environments.

5. How do you monitor excessive working hours and employee welfare in supplier companies?

Samsung Electronics demands that the suppliers must follow all applicable standards and regulations concerning working hours and day offs at all times. Also, any overtime at supplier companies must be on a voluntary basis.

In 2015, Samsung sampled three different months from suppliers’ a peak, a valley and an average month, and found that the number of work hours in an average week stood at 48 hours over those three months. Even during the peak season, total work hours were less than 52 hours, below the maximum limit of 60 hours per week, while suppliers’ compliance rates reached 89 percent on average, a bit lower than the previous year. This drop was due to a temporary surge in production during the peak season at some suppliers and the introduction of a new technology-based process for new products despite an increased supply in manpower and facility expansion.

To improve compliance rates at supplier companies, Samsung analyzes data regarding their production capability and output, and makes forecasts of estimated overtime work hours. The company then helps suppliers manage work hours in a preemptive manner by providing them with relevant data. Together with the monitoring of weekly extra work hours at supplier worksites, Samsung have continued to carry out customized support activities, such as assisting workers in charge of equipment maintenance and repair work, which frequently requires overtime hours, to ensure that every supplier conforms to stringent work hour regulations. Samsung is aware of the risk of suppliers forging working hour data and we take such cases very seriously.

6. Is it true that Samsung Electronics hires under aged employees at its production sites and suppliers in China?

Samsung Electronics has a zero tolerance policy on child labor and there were no evidence of child labor cases at suppliers in 2016.

For more information, please visit:

Samsung is urgently looking into the recent child labor allegations and will adhere to its zero-tolerance policy

7. What is Samsung Electronics doing in China to ensure child labor is not presented at local supplier facilities? What is Samsung’s policy on the presence of child labor in its supply chain?

Samsung Electronics set up and shared a new hiring process with suppliers to strengthen identity verification. These measures included the use of an electronic scanner to detect and prevent use of fake IDs or documents. Since December 2014, a facial recognition system was also introduced to suppliers in China, reinforcing Samsung’s commitment to preventing child labor. By co-developing our policies with CCR CSR (The Centre for Child Rights and Corporate Social Responsibility), an international group with extensive experience and knowledge of child rights protection and relevant labor standards in China, Samsung Electronics and its suppliers have enhanced knowledge and expertise in preventative measures against child labor.

Additionally, Samsung educates its suppliers on the child labor prohibition policy on a regular basis. Particularly in China, Samsung conducts field inspections during vacation periods, the season with the highest risk of child labor because it is a period when more under-aged people looking for jobs. As such, we continue to monitor whether our suppliers comply with the employment process and this preventive inspection is referred to as child labor ‘patrol’. In the first half of 2016, we conducted the 358 times of patrols at our 178 suppliers.

For more information, please visit:

[Update] Regarding Samsung’s Action Plans to Review Working Conditions at Chinese Factories

Samsung Electronics Statement on Recent Allegation of Child Labor at a Supplier

8. What do you mean ‘Zero tolerance’?

In Samsung’s Child Labor Prohibition Policy, a zero tolerance policy means that child labor at any stage of the Samsung’s business will be considered as unacceptable and intolerable.

Samsung Electronics mandates compliance of employment standards such as those designed to prevent child labor. If child labor is found in supplier companies, Samsung Electronics adopts a zero-tolerance policy and suspends transactions with them.

9. What happens when a child worker is found at a supplier company?

When a supplier is found to have workers under the legal minimum working age, the supplier is required to take the following actions:

1) Remove any and all child labor from the workplace immediately to ensure the safety of the children. The supplier shall not expose children anything hazardous or unsafe to their physical and mental health.

2) Inform Samsung’s trained local experts immediately. Samsung Electronics will verify the child is under the legal age by checking all documents and investigate the circumstances surrounding the child’s employment. The supplier shall ensure that Samsung Electronics can confirm the child’s physical safety and working conditions including labor contract, wage, working hours, etc.

3) The costs and expense of sending child labor back to the family or original place of abode shall be fully paid by the supplier. This decision must be documented.

4) When the child reaches the legal minimum working age, he or she must be given the opportunity to be re-employed in written document. Samsung Electronics is committed to provide with continuous improvement in other necessary policies with regard to our supplier facilities.

10. It has been reported that children who are found to be working at one corporation will move to another corporation when the contract is terminated due to violation of child labor policies. Did Samsung Electronics consider this problem?

Samsung Electronics focuses on preventative measures to ensure there are no instances of child’s labor at any of its suppliers and requires its suppliers to provide with the support that is in the best interest of the child.

Our company policy addresses the impact on children who are found to be working in violation of our policies through a program that supports their livelihood to fundamentally avoid continued work elsewhere. These measures are aimed to ensure children will not have to become child laborers at another facility in another region.

* Initially posted on March 20th, 2015

* November 28th, 2016: Updated to reflect Samsung Sustainability Report 2016

Some Samsung Smart TVs offer voice recognitions functions. These functions are enabled only when users agree to the separate Samsung Privacy Policy and Terms of Use regarding this function when initially setting up the TV. Apart from initial setup, users are given the choice to activate or deactivate the voice recognition feature at any time.

Voice recognition takes place in two ways:

The first is through an embedded microphone inside the TV set that responds to simple predetermined TV commands such as changing the channel and increasing the volume. Voice data is neither stored nor transmitted in using these predetermined commands.

The second microphone, which is inside the remote control, requires interaction with a server because it is used for searching content. A user, for example, can speak into the remote control requesting the search of particular TV programs (ex: “Recommend a good Sci-Fi movie”). This interaction works like most any other voice recognition service available on other products including smartphones and tablets.

The following language in Samsung’s privacy policy has led to confusion:

“Please be aware that if your spoken words include personal or other sensitive information, that information will be among the data captured and transmitted to a third party through your use of Voice Recognition.”

We have clarified our privacy policy to better explain what actually occurs:

Voice Recognition

You can control your Smart TV, and use many of its features, with voice commands.

If you enable Voice Recognition, you can interact with your Smart TV using your voice. To provide you the Voice Recognition feature, some interactive voice commands may be transmitted (along with information about your device, including device identifiers) to a third-party service provider (currently, Nuance Communications, Inc.) that converts your interactive voice commands to text and to the extent necessary to provide the Voice Recognition features to you. In addition, Samsung may collect and your device may capture voice commands and associated texts so that we can provide you with Voice Recognition features and evaluate and improve the features. Samsung will collect your interactive voice commands only when you make a specific search request to the Smart TV by clicking the activation button either on the remote control or on your screen and speaking into the microphone on the remote control.

If you do not enable Voice Recognition, you will not be able to use interactive voice recognition features, although you may be able to control your TV using certain predefined voice commands.

You may disable Voice Recognition data collection at any time by visiting the “settings” menu. However, this may prevent you from using some of the Voice Recognition features.

*All features, specifications and other product information provided in this document are applicable only to 2015 Samsung Smart TVs.

The unlikely situation where the attacker could lock/unlock user’s device and make the device ring (but not access any data), would have been if the user fell under all four of the following conditions:

1) The attacker occupies a way to send a link containing malicious code.

2) The Find My Mobile user sets up Find My Mobile Remote control ‘ON’ at his/her device

3) The user enters up his/her ID and password and logs on Find My Mobile website (http://findmymobile.samsung.com)
(If the user doesn’t use the website after log-on, it will be automatically logged out)

4) The user clicks the link in email/instant message/SMS sent by attackers

Find My Mobile is available for Samsung smartphones and tablets which run on Android 2.3.3 Ginger bread or higher from Galaxy SⅡ. If you want to check which device can you use the Find My Mobile service on, please visit the following website: http://help.content.samsung.com/csweb/faq/searchFaq.do

Samsung Electronics takes the security of our products very seriously and remains committed to providing our customers with the best user experience.

Following the investigation, Samsung decided to temporarily suspend business with the factory in question as it found evidences of suspected child labor at the worksite. The decision was made in accordance with Samsung’s zero tolerance policy on child labor.

It is unfortunate that the allegation surfaced despite Samsung’s efforts to prevent child labor at its suppliers. As part of its pledge against child labor, Samsung routinely conducts inspections to monitor its suppliers in China to ensure they follow the commitment, and has provided necessary support.

For Dongguan Shinyang Electronics, Samsung has conducted audits on three occasions since 2013, with the latest one ending on June 25, 2014. No cases of child labor were found during these audits.

In the separate investigation following the CLW allegations, however, Samsung found evidences of illegal hiring process that took place on June 29. The Chinese authorities are also looking into the case.

If the investigations conclude that the supplier indeed hired children illegally, Samsung will permanently halt business with the supplier in accordance with its zero tolerance policy on child labor.

Furthermore, Samsung will strengthen its hiring process not only at its production facilities but also at its suppliers to prevent such case from reoccurring.

Related Articles

Samsung is urgently looking into the recent child labor allegations and will adhere to its zero-tolerance policy 

(2014-07-10) 

Regarding Recent Allegations that HTNS Shenzhen Hired an Underage Worker in China (2012-12-15) 

Corrective Measures of Working Conditions at Supplier Factories in China (2012-11-26)

[Update] Regarding Samsung’s Action Plans to Review Working Conditions at Chinese Factories (2012-09-07) 

Regarding Samsung’s Action Plans to Review Working Conditions at Chinese Factories (2014-09-03)

Samsung to Investigate Working Conditions at HEG Electronics (2012-08-09) 

As part of our pledge against child labor, Samsung routinely conducts inspections to monitor our suppliers to ensure they follow our commitment. For the supplier in question, we have conducted a thorough audit in March 2013 which was followed by a third party inspection in August 2013, and yet another one in June 2014. No cases of child labor were found during these audits.
We are urgently looking into the latest allegations and will take appropriate measures in accordance with our policies to prevent any cases of child labor in our suppliers.

We have demanded our suppliers to adopt a new hiring process to strengthen identity verification beginning the end of 2012. These measures included face-to-face interviews of candidates before hiring, the use of an electronic scanner to detect fake IDs, and distribution of new supplier guidelines setting forth Samsung’s commitments to preventing child labor. In addition to these measures, a facial recognition system was introduced in April this year.

Samsung believes it is our responsibility to hold ourselves and our suppliers to the highest standards of labor practices. As part of this commitment and to pave the way for other companies, Samsung announced our Child Labor Prohibition Policy in China on June 27.

The policy was co-developed with Centre for Child Rights and Corporate Social Responsibility (CCR CSR) in China, which is owned by Save the Children Sweden. It is an example of our efforts to promote a level of compliance that meets the same high standards we maintain at our own facilities. For your information, the Policy can be downloaded in English at the site.

As ninety percent of our parts are uniquely supplied in-house by Samsung’s own manufacturing facilities, we can directly provide world-class working conditions throughout our global network of manufacturing facilities and comply with international labor standards in all regions in which we operate.

With regard to the small share of parts that are supplied by external suppliers, we are moving as fast as possible to address the labor related issues that have been identified from our own and third-party audits and are providing trainings to enhance their capabilities.

This announcement was posted publicly on September 3^rd to our official corporate blog.

On September 4^th, China Labor Watch issued a second report on labor conditions at six Samsung facilities and two supplier company facilities in China.

Samsung conducts routine audits of its facilities to ensure any potential violations are identified and workers are being protected.  We are in full compliance with all laws related to child labor, forced labor and workplace discrimination.

Additionally, we have been taking steps to improve working hour practices, such as instances of overtime when new lines are built or when new products are introduced into the manufacturing process.

However, we will closely review the recent China Labor Watch report and take corrective actions if any violations of our labor policies are found.

At Samsung, the health and safety of our employees is our primary concern and we will continue to abide by all labor and human rights laws in each respective operating region.

Once the investigation is complete, we will be able to provide further details on the situation. We are committed to providing our customers with the safest products possible and are looking at this seriously.

[Update: July 7, 2012] Following a series of tests, an independent third-party organization determined that an external energy source was the cause for the damage on the GALAXY SIII in question. In other words, no, the Galaxy S III did not blow up on its own. http://news.samsung.com/global/?p=16161

Samsung is simply complying with Australian procedural requirements so it can make all possible invalidity arguments against Apple’s dubious patents. Samsung’s invalidity case against Apple is not new and has been in progress since Apple first commenced proceedings against Samsung in Australia last year. Samsung’s claim against Apple always has been that Apple’s patents should be revoked, and the new procedural aspect of the claim does not change that in any way.

In Japan, Samsung is also seeking an injunction order to immediately bar the sale of iPhone4 and iPad2. And in a separate filing today, Samsung has appealed the Australian court’s decision on October 13 to grant a preliminary injunction over the Galaxy Tab 10.1.

The injunction request in Japan cites infringements on one High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) standard-related patent and three user interface patents, which seriously violate Samsung’s intellectual property.

Patent Claims in Japan:

1) One HSPA patent which relates to a method for deciding amount of power consumption during data transmission

2) Three user interface patents that are essential for displaying information on the screen, specifically UIs for the “in flight mode” indicator (airplane icon); for customizing a smartphone’s home screen; and for browsing applications categorized in a tree structure (in an apps store).

Samsung’s preliminary injunction request in Australia cites three patent infringements related to wireless telecommunications standards, specifically Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) and HSPA.

Patent Claims in Australia:

1)  Method and apparatus for transmitting/receiving packet data using pre-defined length indicator in a mobile communication system (WCDMA)

2)  Method and apparatus for data transmission in a mobile telecommunication system supporting enhanced uplink service (HSPA)

3)  Method and apparatus for transmitting and receiving data with high reliability in a mobile communication system supporting packet data transmission (HSPA)
In light of these violations, Samsung believes the sale of such Apple devices should be banned. Apple has continued to violate our patent rights and free ride on our technology. We will no longer stand idly by and will steadfastly protect our intellectual property.

This is a part of our ongoing legal proceeding against Apple’s claim. Samsung is also confident it can prove Apple’s violation of Samsung’s wireless technology patents through a cross claim filed on September 16, 2011 with the Federal Court of Australia, New South Wales.

Our wireless standard patents are essential for mobile business. We will continue to legally assert our intellectual property rights against those who violate Samsung’s patents and free ride on our technology.

Samsung’s preliminary injunction requests in France and Italy will each cite two patent infringements related to wireless telecommunications technology, specifically Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) standards for 3G mobile handsets.

The infringed technology is essential to the reliable functioning of telecom networks and devices and Samsung believes that Apple’s violation as being too severe and that the iPhone 4S should be barred from sales.

Apple has continued to flagrantly violate our intellectual property rights and free ride on our technology. We believe it is now necessary to take legal action to protect our innovation.

Samsung plans to file preliminary injunctions in other countries after further review.

This ruling is not expected to affect sales in other European markets.

Samsung has a proud history of innovation in the mobile industry. We will continue our plans to introduce new products and technologies that meet and exceed consumer expectations. And we will defend our intellectual property rights through the ongoing legal proceedings around the world.

The ruling found no IP infringements by Samsung GALAXY Tab devices. It found that Samsung’s GALAXY S, GALAXY S II, and GALAXY Ace infringed just one of the 10 IP rights which were cited in the lawsuit.

The court ruled that Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd, the parent company, may not sell the cited products in the Netherlands. This does not affect Samsung Electronics’ sales in the rest of Europe.

The court ruled that Samsung’s Netherlands-based subsidiaries may not sell the cited products in the Netherlands, the UK, France, Germany, Finland, Ireland, Lichtenstein, Luxemburg, Monaco, Sweden, Switzerland until the cited single infringement is addressed.

The ruling provides a grace period until Oct. 14 to address the single infringement cited.

* Some expressions in the table above regarding Copyright have been updated for clearer communication.

We hope this clarifies any confusion that may have occurred.

We appreciate the interest in our upcoming mobile devices and will share more information once its available.

It should be noted that this order does not permanently prevent the sale of the GALAXY Tab 10.1 in Europe, but is a temporary measure imposed by the court until the patent claim is heard. Also, products already distributed to German retailers following the launch on August 5 are not affected by this injunction. (correction: The actual launching date in Germany is August 1st.)

Samsung is preparing to challenge this preliminary order in the court in order to have the injunction lifted as soon as possible.

We will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure Samsung’s innovative mobile communications devices remain are available to consumers in Europe and around the world.

This decision by the court in Germany in no way influences other legal proceedings filed with the courts in Europe and elsewhere.

In this case, approval was not given to Anymode for the accessory to feature this official designation.  We are working with Anymode to address this oversight and the product has already been removed from the Anymode sales website.  The product has not been sold.