Samsung is addressing both in two key ways: by designing Galaxy AI experiences with built-in safeguards that protect user data from the ground up, and by applying AI to strengthen mobile security and privacy protections. While both approaches are essential, building AI that handles data responsibly remains the most urgent priority.

Transparency and choice are the principles driving this work. That’s where Galaxy’s intuitive, easy-to-use privacy settings come in, helping you understand what data is used in AI processing, how it’s handled, and how you can control it. These protections empower you to make your own rules for your mobile experience — and to stay safe while you do.

Advanced Settings for Advanced AI

This freedom of choice comes into play for Galaxy AI experiences. With AI increasingly becoming a part of what we do, it’s only natural to want more control over how your personal data is used in relation to it. Enter Galaxy AI privacy safeguards: a set of policies and protections that go above and beyond to make sure you’re informed and protected when leveraging Galaxy AI.

One of the ways we champion user control is through our powerful suite of AI tools that can operate on-device, keeping your data securely in your hands. Whether you’re using communication tools like Live Translate and Interpreter to break down language barriers, or editing tools like Audio Eraser¹ to stretch the limits of creativity, inputs are kept within the confines of your phone. These features offer a safe, responsive mobile experience that runs directly on your device, right at your fingertips — working alongside Galaxy AI’s privacy protections to give you greater visibility and control over your data.

Since launching Galaxy AI, our vision has been driven by a commitment to openness and user choice. That’s why we chose a hybrid approach, introducing a powerful combination of on-device and cloud-based AI. This ensures seamless usability and allows users to benefit from the full power of AI for even the most complex tasks. Advanced features such as Generative Edit² offer on-device capabilities and also tap into cloud-based AI as needed for more processing-intensive edits. With Galaxy, all AI experiences are designed with your privacy in mind — even those that utilize remote servers. No matter what feature or what settings you choose, personal data is never stored long-term or used for AI training — whether processed on-device or on the cloud. Plus, with Advanced Intelligence settings,³ managing your privacy is as simple as tapping a button. You can even choose how your personal information is processed, including the option to disable online processing for AI features.

Privacy is the foundation of Galaxy AI, and thanks to our growing list of on-device AI features alongside powerful settings options, so is user control.

Intuitive Controls for Enhanced Visibility

In addition to AI-powered features, it’s critical that selecting privacy settings be easy and intuitive, no matter which mobile experience you choose. Galaxy’s Security and Privacy dashboard enables ultimate control over your data, including who sees it and how it is used, with a fool-proof interface. You can do it all — from viewing and updating app permissions, controls and data-sharing functions, to identifying which data could be at risk through intuitive safety status icons. With Permission Usage, you can even keep track of which apps may have recently accessed your data. This level of behind-the-curtain visibility across settings is unique to Galaxy, making it easier than ever to see how all Galaxy experiences are secured and built to function according to your preferences.

Another cornerstone of Galaxy privacy settings is Auto Blocker, a key feature that empowers you to secure your mobile devices without sacrificing usability. Auto Blocker protects your device by checking for malware and other security threats, while blocking malicious activity. It prevents unauthorized app installations, blocks commands and updates via USB, and mitigates zero click attacks with Message Guard.

For those looking for an even stronger line of defense against today’s cyber threats, Maximum Restrictions⁴ offers an additional suite of device protections. These added measures offer an extra layer of user control, giving you the choice to block 2G service and prevent data from being intercepted when connected to unsafe networks. They also prevent unintended automatic reconnection to certain Wi-Fi networks that may be less secure.

With Samsung Knox protection and privacy settings that are easy to understand, you hold the power to decide how your data is handled — whether shared or kept completely on-device. Looking ahead, Samsung will further advance AI-powered security technologies to make privacy protections smarter, more adaptive and even more seamless. And as AI continues to evolve, Samsung remains committed to building secure experiences rooted in transparency and choice — now and in the future.

¹ Results may vary per video depending on sounds present in the video. Samsung Account login is required. Certain types of sound can be detected such as voices, music, wind, nature, crowd and noise. The actual sound detection may vary depending on audio source and the condition of the video. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.
² Generative Edit feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Generative Edit may result in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image was generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
³ Availability may vary by device model, OS and/or market.
⁴ Maximum Restrictions prevents automatic, unintended reconnection to less secure networks, which may include Open, Opportunistic Wireless Encryption (OWE) or Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). This protects users from device traffic that may be exposed or intercepted.

Our powerful Galaxy security solutions provide multiple ways to protect you from these cybersecurity threats by securing your device and helping control your privacy. Auto Blocker and Message Guard are two of these safeguards.

Auto Blocker

Auto Blocker is all about choice — providing an opt-in package of additional security measures so that you are completely in control to choose whether you want to explore the customizations enabled by Galaxy’s ecosystem. Auto Blocker will protect your Galaxy device and personal data by preventing app installations from unauthorized sources. The feature will also check for malware and other cybersecurity threats, immediately blocking any malicious activity that could come as a result.

One example of Auto Blocker in action is the prevention of what many people call sideloading, or downloading apps from unverified sources. There are numerous benefits to intentional sideloading, such as added customizations to your phone. But if you do not typically sideload, potential attacks that can come in the form of social engineering fraud like voice phishing — in which threat actors trick you over the phone and talk you into installing malicious software.

The extra level of protection that Auto Blocker provides also stops harmful commands from entering your physical USB port — which could come in handy when charging your phone through an outlet at a public space like an airport.

Turning on Auto Blocker is a quick and simple process that takes less than a minute. Open Settings, go to Security and Privacy, then tap Auto Blocker and select On.

▲ Settings > Security and privacy > Auto Blocker

Message Guard

Cybersecurity threats come in many forms, and each year they become even more sophisticated. One threat that is becoming increasingly common is the zero-click attack, which exploits vulnerabilities in your device software. This can take place any time an image is received and does not require any action whatsoever on the user’s part.

For instance, your phone receives an image and vibrates gently in your pocket or on your bedside table before going still. You haven’t touched your phone or facilitated any input, but someone may already be reading your messages, browsing your gallery or copying your bank details.

Samsung’s Message Guard will neutralize any potential threats that might be hiding in the image before it has a chance to do any harm by effectively trapping the file in an isolated space on your device. While the image is put into quarantine, Samsung Message Guard checks the file bit by bit — processing it in a controlled environment to prevent infection to the rest of your device.

Message Guard works with a range of popular messaging apps that you probably already use, from Google and Samsung apps to Messenger, Telegram and WhatsApp. You don’t need to worry about initiating the process either since Message Guard runs silently and effectively 24/7 in the background without needing to be activated in any way.

▲ Settings > Security and privacy > Auto Blocker > Messaging app protection

Although there is no doubt that cybersecurity threats will continue to evolve and become increasingly common, Samsung’s priority is to always keep you safe because privacy can only be assured with strong security. However you choose to live your life, Galaxy is there — watching your back and ensuring you stay in control.

Security Updates for Longer

While it’s important to have robust security features, it is also crucial to keep them up to date so you are protected against the latest threats. That’s why Samsung is providing up to seven years of security updates and seven years of operating system upgrades, starting with the Galaxy S24 series.¹ This is the longest period of software support currently available for mobile devices, allowing users to keep their phones safely and more reliably for longer.

▲ Settings > Security and privacy > Updates > Security update

¹ Availability and timing of Android OS upgrades and security updates may vary by device model and market.

Samsung Electronics today unveiled the Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G, two smartphones that demonstrate Samsung’s ongoing commitment to making the best of mobile innovations available to everyone. Both devices come with extensive security features such as Knox Vault, as well as new photography capabilities inspired by Galaxy’s flagship camera innovations and a stunning display that adjusts to users’ surroundings with Vision Booster.

“With the Galaxy A series, we are expanding our latest technologies to a wider audience so that more people can benefit from them,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We are excited to open up even more possibilities on the Galaxy A series this year, including offering Samsung Knox Vault for the first time on this lineup. We’re proud to enable Galaxy A series users to safely and reliably enjoy outstanding mobile experiences.”

An Entertainment and Creativity Hub With Versatile Photography and Stunning Display

With enhanced Nightography, Galaxy A55 5G takes clearer and more vibrant photos even in poor lighting conditions. That means every nighttime photo can reach epic new levels. Galaxy A55 5G’s advanced AI Image Signal Processing (ISP) produces stunning low-light images never seen before on Galaxy A series. It’s not just scenery that looks amazing. Night Portrait mode and 12-bit HDR video ensure the people in every image look great so that capturing memories with friends and family is never dependent on the perfect lighting.

Both Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G offer the incredible photography capabilities that Samsung Galaxy is renowned for, including features such as optical image stabilization (OIS) and video digital image stabilization (VDIS) that keep photos and videos crisp even when filming on the go.

The new devices also continue the Galaxy A series’ tradition of making fun and immersive mobile experiences accessible to all. Users can enjoy watching the latest shows or browsing social media with Super AMOLED displays, showing astonishing clarity in Full High Definition. They can also count on the 6.6-inch¹ screen on both the Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G looking clear and bright in a range of light conditions thanks to Vision Booster.

Democratizing Samsung’s Most Powerful Security Innovations To Intelligently Protect More Customers for Longer

This year, Samsung is bringing one of its most innovative flagship security features, Samsung Knox Vault, to Galaxy A series users for the very first time, including on the new Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G. A hardware-based and tamper-resistant security solution, Samsung Knox Vault offers comprehensive protection against both hardware and software attacks by constructing a secure execution environment that is physically isolated from the system’s main processor and memory. It can help protect the most critical data on a device, including lock screen credentials, such as PIN codes, passwords and patterns. Samsung Knox Vault also protects device encryption keys, encrypting users’ private data stored in the device. Only a user who has the correct lock screen credentials can access their data, even if the device is lost or stolen.

The Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G are also secured by Samsung Knox, Galaxy’s multi-layer security platform. One of the most trusted security platforms in the world, Samsung Knox is designed to safeguard critical information and protect against vulnerabilities with end-to-end secure hardware, real-time threat detection and collaborative protection, taking a holistic approach across the entire Galaxy ecosystem.

For even more ways to stay protected, the Galaxy A series offers Auto Blocker, an opt-in package of additional security measures. When switched on, Auto Blocker can block app installations from unauthorized sources, provide app security checks² to scan for potential malware and block potentially malicious commands and software installations to your device while connected by USB cable. New Galaxy A series users will also have access to Galaxy’s Security and Privacy Dashboard, making it easier than ever to see and control what is happening to their data and withdraw any permissions whenever they choose. They can also enjoy Private Sharing (part of Quick Share), which enables the secure and encrypted sharing of private files containing important personal or financial information. To ensure confidentiality, users can control the recipient’s access permissions and the file’s expiration date, while also choosing to limit screenshots or downloads.

The new Galaxy A series smartphones demonstrate Samsung’s commitment to ensure Galaxy devices remain secure and up-to-date for longer. With the Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G, users will continue to benefit from up to four generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades and five years of security updates, optimizing the lifecycle of the devices by keeping them equipped with all the latest Galaxy and Android features.

Seamless Connection With the Ever-Expanding Samsung Galaxy Ecosystem

The Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G are fully compatible with the Galaxy ecosystem giving users a smooth and integrated experience across a range of Galaxy devices. Users can keep up with their fitness goals by connecting Galaxy Fit3 or Galaxy Watch6 to their Galaxy A series smartphone. And, thanks to Auto Switch, incoming calls will be automatically switched to connected Galaxy Buds FE for enhanced convenience.

To find out more about the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, Galaxy A35 5G and other Galaxy smartphones, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsung Mobile Press and Samsung.com.

Specifications

* Specifications may vary by market.
* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice.

¹ Measured diagonally, the screen size is 6.6-inch in the full rectangle and 6.4-inch with accounting for the rounded corners; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.
² Currently not available on US carrier models.

As an open ecosystem that empowers users to define their experience according to their priorities, Galaxy has always stood for choices. From a security and privacy perspective, I believe Galaxy has a duty to give users more say over how they are protected. Having options encourages you to think about what’s really right for you. That’s the philosophy behind Auto Blocker, introduced as part of One UI 6.

Auto Blocker is a package of additional security measures and the latest to join Galaxy’s stable of security and privacy innovations. Just as there is not one single type of cyber threat, there should never be just one approach to security. That’s why Auto Blocker’s safeguards are wide-ranging; it gives users more ways to stay safe, on their terms and with minimal effort.

Let me put it another way: Galaxy lets users set their own boundaries without building a wall around them.

Boundaries, Not Walls

One of Auto Blocker’s features is the ability to enable or disable sideloading. This is the act of installing an app that’s not available on official platforms, such as Google Play or Galaxy Store. Sideloading is hugely popular as there are many benefits for users, including enhanced customization and control over their device’s functionality.

There are entire online communities full of advice and testimonials, dedicated to safe and responsible sideloading, and to new ways of using Galaxy devices that open up exciting possibilities. For those who fully intend to sideload, they won’t notice any change with One UI 6 because Auto Blocker is off by default. Then, what’s the benefit of opting in?

We constantly look out for new threats, and it is increasingly common to see social engineering attacks like voice phishing. This is when an attacker doesn’t target a device, but targets users and aims for human error. For example, if someone called your mother pretending to be from the bank, and they scam her into installing malware. With Auto Blocker activated, such an attempt would be detected and stopped.

So, for those not in the habit of extensive device customizations, turning on Auto Blocker represents additional and effortless peace of mind. And those who love to customize are entirely unaffected. Not only is Galaxy an ecosystem that empowers informed choices, but it is also one that adapts to changes in the digital landscape. Galaxy means the freedom to set your own boundaries — and move them when you wish.

A Complete Package

The option to toggle sideloading is just one part of Auto Blocker, which is packed with other safeguards and effortlessly protects users in other likely scenarios.

Imagine you’re charging your smartphone at an airport or any other public space. Maybe you’re distracted and someone takes the opportunity to grab it, attempting to break into it via the USB port while the device is physically accessible to them. Fortunately, Auto Blocker prevents commands and installations via USB cable, which makes it tough for anyone to physically override your device’s security.

Auto Blocker assures users that they can safely use their favorite apps or try new ones. It turns on app security checks, which look out for potential malware.¹ It also opens up the Message Guard feature, which prevents Zero Click exploits to popular third-party messaging apps, including Messenger, Telegram, KakaoTalk and WhatsApp.

One Part of a Secure Ecosystem

Auto Blocker is just one of the many security innovations we’ve been working on. To further improve protection, we’ve updated the Security and Privacy Dashboard on Galaxy devices – so it’s easier for users to see and control what happens to their data.

We’re also bringing our strongest hardware-based security innovations to more devices with the expansion of Knox Vault to additional smartphone models and other non-mobile product categories. Looking ahead, we’ve updated Knox Matrix — our vision of a future where connected devices can protect one another. Furthermore, we’ve introduced an easier and more convenient way to log in to devices.

By offering more ways to be secure, in more places and on more devices, we’re providing users with greater convenience and greater choice in how to live their lives. Ultimately, isn’t that what everybody wants?

Click here for more on all of Samsung’s security innovations announced at SDC23.

¹ Currently not available on U.S. carrier models.

Samsung Electronics today introduced Auto Blocker, a new security tool for Samsung Galaxy users designed to keep their devices protected in the way that best fits their lifestyle.

Recently released on One UI 6 as part of Samsung Galaxy’s expanded arsenal of security and privacy innovations, Auto Blocker is an opt-in package of additional security measures that gives users more choice as they explore the customizations enabled by Samsung Galaxy’s open ecosystem.

Putting the Choice in Users’ Hands

“At Samsung we constantly strive to keep our users safe from security attacks, and with the introduction of Auto Blocker users can continue to enjoy the benefits of our open ecosystem, knowing that their mobile experience is secured,” said Dr. Seungwon Shin, EVP & Head of Security Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We always seek to empower our users to choose for themselves what best suits their needs — rather than us deciding on their behalf, and Auto Blocker is no exception to that.”

One of Auto Blocker’s features is the prevention of app installations from unauthorized sources,¹ known as sideloading. There are many benefits to intentional sideloading, such as enhanced customization and control over a device’s functionality. Those who love to safely sideload will experience no change as the feature is off by default. For those not in the habit of sideloading or extensive customization, activating Auto Blocker can provide additional peace of mind by stalling the rise of social engineering attacks like voice phishing, where attackers could talk users into installing malicious software.

Auto Blocker has a range of additional controls, including turning on app security checks² to help detect potential malware and prevent harmful commands and software installations by USB cable. This can help protect users in a situation where someone has physical access to their device, like when charging a phone at an airport.

With this feature also comes an update to Message Guard, which mitigates Zero Click attacks, or direct image messages hiding malicious code. Initially launched for messaging apps from Google and Samsung, it now can help protect users using popular third party apps.³ This way, users have greater choice over the apps they can safely use.

Pushing the Industry Forward With New Security Standards

Samsung sets the foundation for a safer, more secure mobile experience for Galaxy users, and Auto Blocker takes this one step further by combining industry-leading security standards with user choice to allow customers to control their device their way. As the latest feature to be added to Samsung’s suite of security and privacy innovations, Auto Blocker further optimizes the mobile experience for users across the Galaxy ecosystem.

Auto Blocker is available now on Samsung Galaxy devices compatible with One UI 6.

¹ Authorized sources include Google Play and Galaxy Store.
² Currently not available on US carrier models.
³ Messenger, Telegram, KakaoTalk, WhatsApp.