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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Samsung Secure Folder is a protected space on supported Galaxy phones and tablets where you can keep selected files and separate copies of apps behind their own lock. It is a built-in software feature, not a separate storage device. Samsung says it is protected by Knox, but it should not be treated as a guarantee that data is invulnerable.
What is a Secure Folder on your Samsung phone?
Think of Secure Folder as a private area within your Galaxy device. You can place chosen photos, documents and other files there, and add apps as separate copies. Those copies sit inside Secure Folder rather than simply hiding the original app from the regular Apps screen. Samsung describes the feature as Knox-protected and secured with a lock method you choose. Samsung Support explains Secure Folder.
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That makes it different from putting a file in an ordinary folder or hiding an app icon: Secure Folder has its own authentication step. It is still a device feature, not a substitute for maintaining a secure backup or for protecting your Samsung account and phone itself.
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No. Samsung says Secure Folder is available only on supported devices; on an unsupported phone or tablet, it will not appear in the relevant Settings menu. Availability and menu labels can depend on the device, carrier, region and software version. Check your device’s Settings rather than relying on a universal model list. Samsung US Support’s current guidance describes the availability check.
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How do I set up Secure Folder?
Samsung’s current US instructions use this route; older software or other regions may show different labels:
- Open Settings and go to Security and privacy > More security settings > Secure Folder.
- Review and accept the requested permissions. Sign in to your Samsung account, or create one if prompted.
- Choose a separate lock method, such as a PIN, password or pattern. A supported biometric method may also be available.
- If offered, enable Reset with Samsung account if you want that account to be a recovery option if you forget the Secure Folder lock.
Exact prompts and available lock options can vary by device and software. For current device-specific steps, consult Samsung US Support.
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- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
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How do I put files and apps in Secure Folder?
Move or copy files
Open Secure Folder and use its add-files controls, or use a supported app’s sharing or file-management options to place content there. Depending on the action you choose, a file may be moved into the protected area or copied while the original remains outside. Check which option you selected before removing any original.
Samsung US notes that a file stored only in a cloud account cannot be moved directly into Secure Folder. First make it available in the device’s storage, then add it. Instructions and supported file options are covered in Samsung’s Secure Folder guide.
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Add an app
Adding an app creates a separate copy inside Secure Folder. It is distinct from the copy outside, so its data and sign-in state may need to be set up separately. Adding the protected copy does not, by itself, remove or hide the regular app.
Can I hide the Secure Folder icon?
Yes. Samsung’s controls let you hide Secure Folder’s visible icon from the Apps screen and later show it again through the device interface. Hiding changes visibility; it does not replace the folder’s lock or establish that its contents are invisible to every system mechanism. Keep authentication enabled and choose a lock method you can remember. See Samsung’s explanation of using Secure Folder for the relevant controls.
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- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
What if I forget the Secure Folder PIN or password?
If you enabled Reset with Samsung account during setup, Samsung account recovery may let you reset the Secure Folder lock. If you did not enable it, Samsung warns that forgetting the passcode may leave you unable to access the folder. Do not assume that reinstalling the feature or changing the phone’s ordinary screen lock will recover its contents. Samsung describes the account-reset setting in its US support instructions.
Can I back up or transfer Secure Folder data?
Do not assume that Secure Folder has the same backup and transfer options as ordinary phone files. Samsung Canada’s guidance, updated December 17, 2025, says direct Secure Folder backup is no longer supported, while restoration from prior backups and transfer through Smart Switch may be possible. That is regional, dated guidance—not a guarantee for every device or current setup. Check Samsung support for your country and model before resetting, replacing or trading in a phone. Samsung Canada’s Secure Folder guidance.
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- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
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- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
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A Galaxy Z Fold6 manual says Secure Folder data cannot be transferred through unapproved sharing methods such as USB or Wi-Fi Direct, and warns that modifying the operating system can lock the folder. Those warnings are specific to that manual and should not be assumed to describe every device identically. The manual advises keeping another secure copy of important data: Galaxy Z Fold6 user manual, Secure Folder section.
Quick Recap
When Secure Folder is a useful choice
- Use it for selected files or app activity you want separated behind another authentication step on a supported Galaxy device.
- Remember that an app inside is a separate copy, so content or settings may not automatically match the app outside.
- Set up the account-based reset option if you want Samsung account recovery, and keep a separate secure copy of important data where appropriate.
- Check regional Samsung guidance before expecting backup, restoration or transfer to work a particular way.
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