Samsung has announced a new Auto Blocker feature for Galaxy users. It helps keep their devices safe from sideloading and performs app security checks. With the feature, Samsung wishes to set the “foundation for a safer, more secure mobile experience for Galaxy users.” Here’s everything Samsung Galaxy users should know about the Auto Blocker, how to enable it, and its availability.
Who Can Use Samsung’s Auto Blocker And How To Enable It?
Auto Blocker comes as a part of One UI 6.0. It is available as a setting that users need to turn on, as it isn’t enabled by default. Hence, users who’ve got their hands on the latest software update by Samsung (currently available for Galaxy S23 users) should head to Settings, search for Auto Blocker, and turn on the feature by hitting the toggle.
What Does Auto Blocker Do?
Auto Blocker provides three security features. First, it blocks apps from unauthorized sources, such as third-party app stores on the internet or websites that provide APKs. In its release, Samsung mentions that preventing sideloading can help prevent social engineering attacks like voice phishing, malware infection, etc.
The second security feature is app security checks. In theory, security checks should also be able to detect apps that initially pretend to be innocent, get listed on app stores, and later extract users’ information and data. The Auto Blocker also blocks commands by USB cable, which helps prevent software installations by USB cable, especially when someone else has physical access to their smartphone, like while charging a phone at the airport.
Samsung’s Auto Blocker also comes with an update to Message Guard, which mitigates Zero Click attacks or direct image messages hiding malicious code. Initially launched for messaging apps from Samsung and Google, Message Gard can now help protect users even on third-party messaging apps, including Facebook Messenger, Telegram, WhatsApp, and KakaoTalk.
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