For this reason, Samsung has been working to redefine how digital safety is built into everyday life. At IFA 2025, we shared how it is making the AI Home a reality, with security a fundamental pillar. The company’s unique security solutions, including Knox Matrix[2] and Knox Vault[3] have been applied to a wide range of home appliances, helping create a safer and more secure home environment.

How Does Samsung Prioritise Security?

While 2024 marked the first time Samsung formally introduced Samsung Knox for home appliances, the company has been working on embedded security for over a decade. Back in 2011, as Samsung was exploring appliances that could serve as early-stage home controllers, internal research had already begun to find ways to prevent data theft.

According to Seb Goff, Brand Marketing Lead for Digital Appliances at Samsung Electronics UK, real momentum began with the launch of the refrigerator with Family Hub. It integrated services that could store personal data, like schedules on a calendar, and leveraged Samsung account information. It also allowed users to remotely connect and control their refrigerator via SmartThings.[4]

“Back then, IoT was still new, and there was limited awareness of the security challenges associated with IoT devices,” Goff notes. “It wasn’t easy to get started. We had to consider what standards and security models would be appropriate for home appliances, and it required significant technological investment.”

Coincidentally, this was also when a type of malware that infected IoT devices first emerged. The arrival of malware that targeted connected devices, around the same time that Samsung’s IoT refrigerator released, marked a paradigm shift. It drove Samsung to accelerate security research and development.

The Scope of Security Requirements Is Expanding

While the debut of Family Hub raised awareness about the need for appliance security, the expansion of SmartThings deepened the technical demands.

“There’s simply more to consider,” says Goff. “With SmartThings, some functions may involve basic data exchange, while others could handle more personal information. For example, the Map View feature[5] allows users to see multiple connected devices at a glance. However, it also means that devices must share data with one another, which increases both the number and complexity of possible use cases.”

“This shifts the focus from securing individual devices to ensuring inter-device security within a connected environment. Looking ahead, as technologies that incorporate AI continue to advance, even more use cases and threats must be anticipated. That’s why it is becoming increasingly important to establish clear security criteria, which decide how security should be applied and how it must be reflected in product design from the outset.”

The evolution of product features has also accelerated the adoption of new security technologies. As devices become more advanced and their capabilities expand, security measures must evolve to meet those new demands.

“Think about robot vacuums,” Goff explains. “In the past, the camera was used for navigation. But the model we now have introduced monitoring features, which brought video security into the mix.[6] As features evolve, the volume and sensitivity of the data that must be protected increases, and so does the complexity of the technology required.”

Monitor Your Appliances Through Samsung SmartThings

Over time, Samsung has steadily built up its security technologies and accumulated valuable know-how through a range of experiences. This is why, at a time when security has become a top priority, the company can confidently position it front and centre.

Furthermore, Samsung has achieved significant advancements in security through its mobile business, which is one of the most personal and security-sensitive product categories. Leveraging these technologies, and with a broad portfolio that spans TVs to mobile devices, the company has been able to extend its security innovations across business divisions, establishing a robust protection framework in home appliances.

Are Samsung Appliances Certified as Secure?

“The appeal of a smart home lies in how appliances adapt to you and are easy to control,” he added. “But if your personal data is at risk, you simply can’t feel secure. We’ve been consistently investing in this space for over a decade, and we believe that’s why renowned institutions and government bodies have recognised our efforts.”

In fact, the strength of Samsung’s security system has also been verified with several third-party certifications. As a key example of this, multiple products have been verified at level “Diamond” under UL Solutions Marketing Claim Verification IoT Security Rating Program. To earn this verification, which is the highest level, a product must satisfy 56 detailed criteria, across 33 evaluation items in six core domains.

These criteria cover a wide range of aspects, including software updates, data encryption, and system management. The evaluation is thorough and designed to ensure compatibility with various international security standards, making it one of the most comprehensive certifications available.

Bespoke AI Jet Bot Combo

Another area where Samsung demonstrates clear strength is in privacy protection. The company’s Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI, a vacuum and mop robot cleaner, became the first of its kind to obtain the “Privacy by Design” certification, administered by the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA).

This certification requires that personal data protection be considered throughout the entire lifecycle of a product or service — including planning, production, and disposal — and involves passing 71 detailed evaluation criteria across four key domains.

“As you can see from the number of criteria, even though there may be some overlap, the items are diverse, and the requirements differ slightly for each certification. So, it’s not easy for one product to meet multiple sets of standards simultaneously,” Goff explained. “Fortunately, our robot vacuums already comply with a wide range of IoT standards, so we were able to fulfill the security requirements, which also played a crucial role in protecting user privacy.”

Further underscoring the company’s leadership in both home appliance technology and data security, Samsung’s robot vacuum cleaner, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo,[7] and Bespoke AI Refrigerators[8] also received an IoT security certification from TÜV Nord, a global certification organisation based in Germany. TÜV Nord is a globally renowned institution, acknowledged as an IECEE-accredited National Certification Body.

How is Samsung Making Its Appliances More Secure for The Future?

At a recent global conference, Samsung addressed the future of security, introducing Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC),[9] a new and lesser-known data encryption technology. This type of protection is becoming increasingly necessary because as quantum computing advances, current encryption algorithms may eventually become vulnerable to decryption. To stay ahead of this potential threat, Samsung is implementing PQC within Knox Matrix in home appliances.

Post-Quantum Cryptography

While some may question whether it’s too early to be thinking about post-quantum security, Samsung is taking a long-term view to ensure protection is in place for its customers. Home appliances are typically used for around 10 years after purchase. Considering that product lifecycle, Samsung believes it’s critical to prepare now for risks that may become real in the future. That’s the mindset driving its vision for the smart home.

“If you wait until after data starts leaking, it’s already too late. Our mission is to continue enhancing our security technologies so that consumers can always feel safe and secure when using our products,” said Goff.

Why Should I Choose A Samsung Appliance?

Security is one of many reasons to choose a Samsung Appliance. You can find out a little more in the video below, and on Samsung.com.

[1] Research from Samsung Electronics, which surveyed over 8,000 Millennial and Gen Z respondents across Europe, including the UK

[2] Currently applied to all Wi-Fi enabled appliances launching in 2025 and planned to be expanded to chosen models that launched in 2024 from September 2025.

[3] Currently applied to appliances with 7-inch or 9-inch AI Home, and AI Family Hub screen launching in 2025, except Bespoke AI Oven.

[4] Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.

[5] Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required.

[6] Available on Samsung devices running Android 11 or later, and may not work on some devices.

[7] VR7MD97****/**, VR7MD96****/**

[8] RM90F**B***, RF90F**A***, RF90F**E***, RM90F**C**, RM90F**D**, RM90F**E**, RM90F**X*, RF90F**B***, RF**DB99***, RF**DB95***, RF**DG9H***

[9] PQC is applied to appliances with 7-inch or 9-inch AI Home, and AI Family Hub screen launching in 2025. (except Bespoke AI Oven)

Samsung issued a public safety security message alert today, which will reach all over 40m Samsung Account holders in the UK this week, through customer communication channels and the Samsung Members platform.

This outreach will be reinforced through UK social channels and Samsung has also committed significant marketing spend this week, launching an awareness campaign around the privacy features available on the Samsung Knox Security Platform. The privacy campaign will feature at Samsung’s Piccadilly Lights space, through OOH adverts in tube stations and train stations in central London and content across OLV, CTV and BVOD channels.

Samsung recently started rolling out One UI 7 with security updates to existing features, including additional theft-protection and security delay anti-robbery features. These features will now also be available to even more devices, having starting with the launch of the Galaxy S25 series in February, and now rolling out to further Galaxy series smartphones throughout this year.

Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience (MX) VP of Product and Marketing, UK&I at Samsung, spoke on the issue of phone theft: “Samsung is deeply committed to working closely with the Home Office on the issue of mobile phone theft and related crimes and we’re in constant collaboration with our partners across the industry, to look at new and existing solutions to help combat this complex issue and ultimately help improve the safety of mobile phone users.

“Our recent One UI 7 update built further on existing protections with new anti-theft features such as identity check, biometric authentication and security delay, all featured in our latest Galaxy S25 series. These features have now also been rolled out into a range of models across our devices and further updates will follow. We must do everything we can to ensure the safety and security of our customers when they are using their mobile devices and we will continue to work hard to ensure our customers are aware of the wide range of security features available to them.”

Samsung is introducing new security updates to better protect users in the event of phone theft. One critical update is Theft Protection – a multi-layered suite of features developed to safeguard personal data, even in high-risk situations such as robbery.

Theft Protection builds on standard Android safeguards, which are effective in typical theft scenarios where the thief doesn’t know the PIN. With One UI 7, Samsung goes further by introducing additional protections that anticipate more serious threats, including cases where access credentials may have been exposed.

Galaxy users can now enable a range of new security measures, including Identity Check, designed to offer stronger protection in complex theft scenarios. These features respond automatically and intelligently to suspicious activity, helping ensure that personal data remains secure and under the user’s control in these critical moments.

Existing and updated features in Theft Protection include:

• Theft Detection Lock: Uses machine learning to detect motions associated with theft such as snatching, and instantly locks the screen to stop unauthorised access.
• Offline Device Lock: Automatically locks the screen if the device is disconnected from the network for an extended period, ensuring protection even when the device is offline.
• Remote Lock: If the device has already been stolen, users can lock it remotely using their phone number and a quick verification step. Remote Lock also allows users to regain control of their account and explore additional recovery options.

New Anti-Robbery Features released on One UI 7 include:

• Identity Check: In unfamiliar locations, the ‘Safe Places’ feature requires biometric authentication for any changes to sensitive security settings, adding an additional layer of protection when a PIN may have been compromised.
• Security Delay: If a robber attempts to reset biometric data, a one-hour delay immediately gets activated before any changes take effect. This crucial buffer gives Samsung customers time to lock the stolen phone from a connected device, such as a PC or tablet, before unauthorised access can occur.

These updated theft features are now becoming available on previous flagship devices, starting with the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold6, Z Flip6, Z Fold5, Z Flip 5, S23 and S22 series currently,  with future updates planned for even more Galaxy smartphones.

To set up the latest anti-theft features, users in the UK can contact Samsung here:

• Visit: samsung.com/uk/support/contact
• Call us: 0333 000 0333
• Live Chat: samsung.com/uk/support/chat-members

For guidance on setting up a Galaxy device with the latest anti-theft features, please visit:

How to use security settings on your phone | Samsung UK

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Further steps to take if your Samsung Galaxy device is lost or stolen

How to remotely lock your Samsung Galaxy device:

• Sign into Samsung Find using your Samsung account
• Select your phone on the left-hand side of the page, then choose Lost Mode in the device details section
• Create a PIN to unlock your phone if recovered, and enter it twice to confirm
• You will have the option to add an emergency contact and a custom message that will display on the locked screen (It’s recommended to skip this step to avoid sharing personal contact details)
• When you are ready, select the Lock button and verify your Samsung account to activate Lost mode
• If your device is recovered, you can unlock it using the PIN that was created when setting lost mode on your device

How to remotely delete data on your Samsung Galaxy device: 

• Visit the Samsung Find website
• Select the phone you want to erase and choose Erase Data
• Verify your Samsung account credentials

Review the information provided and tap Erase to confirm

• All the data on your mobile, including Samsung Pay information, will be permanently deleted and cannot be recovered
• This will also reset your phone, meaning you won’t be able to locate and control it via Samsung Find
• Make sure to regularly back up your data to the cloud so you can restore it to a new device if needed

How to remotely change your Samsung and/or Google account passwords: 

• It is recommended to change the passwords for your Samsung and Google accounts (or whichever accounts are linked to your device) by signing in through their respective websites
• Once changed, you will be signed out of all connected devices, except the one you’re using
• This prevents unauthorised access to account-linked features and protects your personal information

How to track your Galaxy device:

If your device is turned on and connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data, its last known location will appear on a map 

• Visit the Samsung Find website
• Sign in with the Samsung account associated with your device (or a guardian’s account)
• If multiple devices are linked to your account, they will all appear – select the one you want to locate
• You’ll see its current or last known location

Other remote features available: 

• Ring: Make your device ring even if it’s set to silent or vibrate
• Extend battery life: Activate power-saving settings to keep your device on longer and improve the chances of recovery
• Track location: Enable real-time location tracking and your phone’s location will update every 15 minutes until tracking is stopped

Other ways to locate Galaxy devices

Find your phone using your Galaxy watch (WearOS 5 or higher):

• Swipe down from the top of your Galaxy Watch to open Quick settings
• Tap the Find My Phone icon
• Tap Start to begin the search – your phone’s ringtone will sound
• Once found, tap Stop on your watch or the X icon on your phone

Find your Galaxy Watch: 

• Open the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone
• Tap Find My Watch (or Find My Band / Find My Gear, depending on your device)
• If connected via Bluetooth, tap Start
• Your watch will vibrate and play a sound (depending on model)
• Once found, tap the X icon on your watch or Stop on your phone

Find your Galaxy Buds: 

• Open the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone or tablet
• Tap Find My Earbuds
• Tap Start – your earbuds will begin beeping and gradually increase in volume for three minutes
• Once found, tap Stop

Using Google’s Find My Device:

• Google’s Find My Device is built into Android via Google Play Services
• You will need a Google account to use it
• With this tool, you can set a new password, make your device ring, display a message, lock and wipe your device, and more

Contact the authorities and your mobile network provider: 

• Once taken the steps above, report your lost or stolen device to the police and record a crime incident report
• Contact your mobile network provider to freeze your contract and prevent unauthorized usage

For additional device protection, it is recommended to have insurance that covers accidental damage, loss, or theft. Samsung offers a variety of protection plans – visit Samsung.com to explore coverage options that best suit your needs.

Being and feeling in control is an essential part of the modern mobile experience. Samsung Galaxy devices provide industry-leading security and privacy protections with comprehensive safeguards, thanks to the award-winning and powerful Samsung Knox platform.

What is Samsung Knox?

• Samsung Knox is an ultra-secure mobile security functionality ensuring top-of-the-line data protection.
• Developed by Samsung, it is a multilayered technology that provides users with enhanced phone security, offering both hardware and software authentication to protect data from malicious attacks.
• Samsung Knox is built into your device, and enabled as soon as you turn it on. So, when you get your new Samsung device, Knox is ready to protect your data.

However, there are additional steps you can take to protect your personal data. Here are Samsung’s top five tips for maximising Galaxy device security…

1) Enable Secure Folder to protect sensitive files

• Secure Folder is a special, secure environment that is password-protected (including biometrics) and uses Samsung Knox security to protect your data from malicious attacks and unauthorised access.
• The data inside Secure Folder is encrypted, never backed up to the cloud, and stored separately away from your normal files where it enjoys extra protection.

2) Share safely by doubling security with Private Share

• When sharing files containing important personal or financial information, Samsung’s Private Share is there to help you share files securely.
• Unlike Quick Share, which uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, Private Share supports file encryption by utilising blockchain. Users can send a variety of files through Private Share, including images, video, audio and documents.
• What’s more, users can control the recipient’s access permission and the file’s expiration date. Users can also adjust the settings and revoke sharing permissions even after the files have been sent.

3) Activate Samsung Message Guard to neutralise security threats

• Did you know that just receiving an image might be enough to let hackers in? While there has been no sign of such attacks on Samsung Galaxy smartphones, Samsung constantly looks ahead to anticipate potential threats and develop preemptive security measures — such as Samsung Message Guard.
• Samsung Message Guard takes security one step further by preemptively protecting your device and automatically neutralising any potential threat, limiting exposure to invisible threats disguised as image attachments.
• It also runs silently and largely invisibly in the background and does not need to be activated by the user. So, you are protected from zero-click exploits without lifting a finger.

4) Enjoy additional security measures with Auto Blocker

• Available now on Samsung Galaxy devices compatible with One UI 6, Auto Blocker is an opt-in package of additional security measures.
• Prevention of app installations from unauthorised sources^[1]: Known as sideloading, activating Auto Blocker can provide additional peace of mind by stalling the rise of social engineering attacks like voice phishing.
• App security checks: To help detect potential malware.
• Prevention of harmful commands and software installations by USB cable: To protect you in a situation where someone has physical access to your device, like when charging a phone at an airport.

5) Check device status with the Security and Privacy dashboard

• The intuitive Security and Privacy dashboard can show the safety status of security items, allowing you to quickly change settings and helps manage risks more seamlessly.
• The items that can make the biggest impact on digital safety — including Lock Screen, Accounts, SmartThings Find, App Safety and Updates — are now instantly accessible at the top of the dashboard, and intuitive red, yellow or green alerts show issues at a glance and provide clear indicators if there are security issues.

By offering more ways to be secure, in more places and on more devices, Samsung is providing users with greater convenience and greater choice in how to live their lives.

And it doesn’t stop there. Samsung is continually addressing the next frontier of device security, demonstrated by its latest security innovation, Knox Matrix. This is Samsung’s vision for a future wherein devices connected in an ecosystem can protect each other — as well as their users. It is a comprehensive approach to security, which will become increasingly essential as more devices and aspects of our lives become connected.

The power of Knox Matrix to protect connected ecosystems will be demonstrated in phases, starting with Samsung Galaxy products, such as smartphones and tablets. Knox Matrix-compatible models will be available from 2024, initially with the three core features mentioned above and more expected to follow via updates. This will expand to cover Samsung’s home appliance devices within the next two to three years, followed by partner devices.

For more information on Samsung security, please visit: https://www.samsungknox.com/

[1] Authorised sources include Google Play and Google Store