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Open Settings > Security and privacy to review the main privacy and security controls on a Samsung Galaxy phone. From there, you can check app permissions, device and account protections, Auto Blocker, and updates. Menu names and available features vary by model, carrier, region, and software version; if a path differs, try the Settings search field with terms such as “permissions” or “Auto Blocker.”
Start in Security and privacy
Open Settings > Security and privacy. Samsung’s hub checks the device and groups controls such as lock screen, account security, lost-device protection, app security, updates, and privacy. Tap a section to review its settings or follow a recommended action. Some sections may not appear on every phone. Samsung’s guide to security and privacy settings describes the hub and notes that availability varies.
If your screen uses a different label or location, search Settings for the control you need. Search results depend on your device configuration and software version.
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To review access by permission type, open Settings > Security and privacy > Privacy > Permission manager, then choose a category such as Camera or Microphone. Select an app to see or change its access. To manage one app directly, open Settings > Apps > [app] > Permissions. Samsung’s settings guide and its app permissions instructions explain these options.
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Depending on the permission, available choices can include Allow, Don’t allow, Allow only while using the app, or Ask every time. Choose the narrowest access that still supports a feature you use. Denying a permission can stop that feature from working until you grant access again.
Samsung says permissions for apps that have not been used for a while may be reset automatically. If that happens, the app will ask for permission again when you open it.
Rank #2
- 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.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Check account, device-finding, and lock-screen protections
In the security and privacy hub, review the account-security recommendations for your Google and Samsung accounts. Check lost-device protection if you want to use Samsung’s device-finding capability. Under app security, Samsung describes Google Play Protect; some devices may also include an additional app scanner. These options are not present on every model.
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For the screen lock, Samsung documents PIN, pattern, or password options, with fingerprint setup on supported devices. Choose a method you can reliably remember. The available setup choices depend on the phone. Samsung’s guide to the hub covers these protection areas.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- 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.
Choose Auto Blocker settings that fit your use
Open Settings > Security and privacy > Auto Blocker. Samsung describes Auto Blocker as protection against apps from unauthorized sources and other suspicious activity. Depending on the software version, it can also include controls for USB commands and unofficial software updates. Samsung’s support guidance recommends keeping it enabled: “For the best protection, we recommend keeping Auto Blocker enabled on your Samsung Galaxy device.” Samsung’s Auto Blocker guidance explains the feature.
Standard Auto Blocker
Samsung says standard Auto Blocker settings are sufficient for most everyday use when apps are installed from trusted stores. If an installation is blocked, first check that the app comes from a source you trust and that you actually need it. Samsung warns that installing apps from other sources can make the phone and personal data more vulnerable. Auto Blocker’s protections and settings are described in Samsung’s support article.
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- 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.
Maximum restrictions
Maximum restrictions add limits for people who want tighter controls and can accept compatibility trade-offs. Samsung says work or enterprise apps that require device-administrator permissions or a work profile may not function; older 2G networks are blocked; and some accessories, apps, or connections may not work as expected. Consider those effects before enabling the option, especially if you rely on a managed work phone or older network service. Samsung lists these Maximum restrictions trade-offs.
Check for security and Google Play system updates
In Settings > Security and privacy > Updates, inspect security updates and Google Play system updates, then follow the on-screen instructions. Restart if prompted. The availability and timing of updates depend on the device and rollout. Samsung’s software update support page explains update history and related options.
Best Value
- 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
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- 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
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Auto Blocker’s restriction on unofficial software does not prevent official system updates installed through Settings or Smart Switch, according to Samsung’s Auto Blocker guidance.
Set up Secure Folder if it is available
On a supported phone, open Settings > Security and privacy > More security settings > Secure Folder and follow the setup steps. Secure Folder provides a separately locked place for supported content and apps. If the option does not appear, the device may not support the feature. Screens and availability vary. See Samsung’s Secure Folder instructions.
Review Samsung Browser privacy controls separately
For Samsung Browser, open the app, tap Tools > Privacy. Its privacy dashboard shows blocked content and offers options such as warnings for malicious sites and blocking automatic downloads; it can also reset browser privacy settings. These controls apply to Samsung Browser, not the phone’s general app permissions. If you use another browser, review that browser’s own privacy and security settings. Samsung’s Browser privacy guide describes the dashboard.
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