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Samsung’s “secret folder” is called Secure Folder. On a supported Galaxy phone or tablet, swipe up from the Home screen, tap Secure Folder in the Apps screen, then unlock it with its configured PIN, password, pattern, or supported fingerprint.
Open Secure Folder from the Apps screen
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From the Home screen, swipe up to open the Apps screen.
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Tap Secure Folder.
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Enter the lock method you set up. Depending on the device, this may be a PIN, password, pattern, or fingerprint. Samsung’s access instructions note that menus and screens can vary by device, carrier, and software version.
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Find it through Settings
If the Apps screen shortcut is missing, open Settings > Security and privacy > More security settings > Secure Folder. Authenticate if prompted. Settings names and paths may differ between software versions; search Settings for “Secure Folder” if you do not see those labels. If Secure Folder does not appear, your device may not support the feature.
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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.
- 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.
Show a hidden Secure Folder shortcut
Hiding Secure Folder from the Apps screen hides its shortcut; it does not delete the folder. If you can reach Secure Folder settings, turn on Add Secure Folder to Apps screen. Samsung also documents a Quick panel control for showing or hiding the shortcut, where that control is available. See Samsung Canada’s hide-and-unhide instructions and Samsung US’s access guidance.
If Secure Folder apps are missing from the share panel
This is separate from whether the Secure Folder shortcut appears on the Apps screen. Samsung says showing Secure Folder apps in the share panel is off by default. A hidden folder or a disabled Allow background activity while locked setting can also affect whether those apps appear. Check the relevant share-panel and Secure Folder settings using Samsung’s device-specific support guidance.
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- 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
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If you forgot the Secure Folder lock
At the lock prompt, use Forgot PIN, Forgot pattern, or the equivalent reset option only if you previously enabled Reset with Samsung account and can sign in to the same Samsung account used during setup. If reset is unavailable, do not assume the contents can be recovered. Check Samsung’s current instructions for your device and region before uninstalling or reinstalling Secure Folder; removal may erase its contents. Samsung’s reset instructions vary by region and software version: see its India support page and Gulf support page.
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Can you open Secure Folder on a computer?
No. Samsung says Secure Folder can only be accessed on the Galaxy phone or tablet, not from the web or a computer. See Samsung’s access FAQ.
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- 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
When the feature or its options are missing
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No Secure Folder in Settings: The device may not support it, or the software interface may use different labels. Search Settings and consult support for your model.
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No Apps screen icon: The shortcut may be hidden. Enable Add Secure Folder to Apps screen or use the Quick panel control if available.
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No reset option: Samsung account reset may not have been enabled before the lock was forgotten. Follow current Samsung guidance for your device before removing the folder.
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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Blue- 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.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
