Your Samsung phone just got a big security upgrade for free (these models included)

If you’re a Galaxy phone user, Samsung warns that you need to activate some new features as soon as you can.

In a press release earlier this week, Samsung explained that as phone thefts continue to rise around the world, it’s critical for users to make sure they enable their phone’s security measures – some of which are new to One UI 7.

Also: Phone theft is on the rise – 7 ways to protect your device before it’s too late

One of the areas getting an update is Theft Protection, which Samsung called “a multi-layered suite of features developed to safeguard personal data.” Existing and updated features in this suite include:

• Theft Detection Lock: This feature uses machine learning to detect motions associated with theft (like a sudden snatch and rapid acceleration), and instantly locks the screen to stop unauthorized access. Pixel devices introduced a similar feature last fall.

• Offline Device Lock: If your device is disconnected from the network for an extended time, the screen gets automatically locked.

• Remote Lock: If your phone has already been stolen, you can lock it remotely using your phone number and a quick verification step. You can also regain control of your account and explore additional recovery options.

These features build on the standard Android safety protection, Samsung noted, but take security a step further by introducing additional protection for high-risk scenarios when your access credentials have been compromised.

To turn on these features, head to your device’s settings menu and find security and privacy, then “Lost Device Protection” and “Theft Protection.”

Samsung also recommended enabling new anti-robbery features that were released in One UI 7, including: 

• Identity check: Samsung lets you define trusted places (say, your home in Google Maps) where your phone stays unlocked. With the “Safe Places” feature, if you’re outside a trusted place, your phone will require biometric authentication for any sensitive security changes. This helps keep your device safe even if someone has your PIN.

• Security Delay: If someone attempts to reset biometric data, your phone puts a one-hour waiting period in place. This gives users time to lock their stolen phone from another device before unauthorized access can occur.

These features are also under the Security and Privacy Section of the settings menu, but under “Lost Device Protection.”

Also: 5 warning signs that your phone’s been hacked – and how to fight back
Samsung said the updated theft features are becoming available now on previous flagship devices like the Galaxy S24 series, Z Fold6, Z Flip6, Z Fold5, Z Flip 5, S23, and S22 series, with future updates coming to even more Galaxy smartphones.

Features like this are starting to become commonplace. Android rolled out broader anti-theft measures last fall, added a few more in May, and even introduced some enhanced protections just a few days ago. Apple introduced its own version for iPhones last January.

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