Secure Folder No Longer a Security Risk Thanks to One UI 8

With One UI 8, Samsung has finally fixed a major security flaw within its Secure Folder. The vulnerability allowed anyone to view sensitive files, apps, and data stored in a protected space. You can now store your private photos, videos, and more without worrying about unauthorized access.

Samsung reclassifies Secure Folder as a private profile in One UI 8

Earlier this year, a massive security flaw in Secure Folder came to light, raising serious concerns among Galaxy users. Using tools like Photo Picker and Permission Controller, anyone could access photos and videos saved in the Secure Folder. The primary reason behind exposing the app is that Samsung implemented its encrypted space as a work profile. System components didn’t treat it as a highly secure or private environment, even though you protect the space with a passcode or biometric lock.

Thankfully, the Korean firm has addressed this vulnerability in its latest One UI 8 update. Based on Android 16, the new software brings several improvements to existing features across the system. More importantly, it now reclassifies Secure Folder as a private profile, which ensures proper isolation of sensitive data.

It is worth noting that the enhanced protection only works when you fully hide the Secure Folder. Simply closing the folder after adding your private files won’t provide the same level of security. Once you hide the folder, it removes its icon from the app drawer and fully encrypts its contents. This ensures that the system doesn’t run background activity of secured apps or push any notifications.

Apart from patching the security flaw, Samsung also introduced a host of system-level security innovations in One UI 8. The company unveiled Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection and quantum-resistant Secure Wi-Fi. The former protects AI-powered features on Galaxy devices, while the latter improves network security against new threats in the era of quantum computing.

Samsung has pre-installed the stable version of One UI 8 on its latest foldables, including the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7. It may begin rolling out to other Galaxy devices early next month, starting with the Galaxy S25 series. We will let you know once the rollout begins so you can take advantage of the enhanced security features.