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Samsung Secure Folder: A Realistic Guide

Secure Folder is a separate, encrypted Android user on your Samsung phone. Here's how to use it well.

Adrián Vega

By Adrián Vega

Published 18 April 2026 · Updated 29 May 2026 · 6 min read

Samsung Galaxy device on a wooden surface

Secure Folder uses Samsung Knox to create what is, technically, a second user profile on your phone — separately encrypted, with its own apps and files. It's genuinely one of Samsung's best privacy features.

What Secure Folder is

What Secure Folder is
Screenshot reference: What Secure Folder is

A locked container. Apps and files inside it are invisible to apps outside it, encrypted with a key derived from a separate password or biometric.

Setting it up

Settings > Security and privacy > Secure Folder. Sign in to your Samsung account, choose a lock method different from your phone's unlock, and you're done.

Three common mistakes

Setting it up
Screenshot reference: Setting it up

1. Using the same PIN as your phone lock defeats the point. 2. Don't back Secure Folder up to Samsung Cloud unless you're comfortable with that trust model. 3. The "Show Secure Folder" toggle in Quick Settings makes it visible — leave it hidden.

Watch

Video walkthrough

A short video on samsung secure folder to complement the steps above.

Key takeaways

  • Secure Folder is a separate encrypted profile, not just a hidden gallery.
  • Use a different lock from your main screen lock.
  • Keep the launcher icon hidden for maximum benefit.

Frequently asked questions

Does Secure Folder work on non-Samsung phones?
No. It depends on Samsung Knox hardware.

References & further reading

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