How to Hide Photos, Apps, and Files Using Galaxy S25 Secure Folder

If you want to keep your personal photos, apps, and files private on your Galaxy S25, the Secure Folder offers a built-in, secure solution. This guide outlines multiple methods to set up, add content to, and manage your Secure Folder effectively.

1. Set Up the Secure Folder

Creating a Secure Folder is the first step to safely store and hide your private data.

Open Settings: Navigate to the Settings app on your Galaxy S25.
Access Security Options: Scroll down and tap on Biometrics and Security (or a similar security category).
Select Secure Folder: Find and tap on Secure Folder.
Sign In: Log in with your Samsung account when prompted.
Set Up Authentication: Choose and configure your preferred authentication method (PIN, pattern, or fingerprint).
Complete Setup: Once configured, the Secure Folder icon will appear in your app drawer.

2. Add Photos to the Secure Folder

Moving your sensitive photos into the Secure Folder ensures they remain hidden from the main Gallery.

Open the Gallery App: Launch your default Gallery application.
Select Photos: Choose the photos you wish to hide.
Move to Secure Folder: Tap on the More or Options button and select Move to Secure Folder.
Confirm the Action: Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the move.
Verify: Open the Secure Folder to ensure your photos have been successfully relocated.

3. Add Apps to the Secure Folder

Securing apps within the Secure Folder keeps sensitive applications hidden and accessible only after authentication.

Launch Secure Folder: Open the Secure Folder app from your app drawer.
Tap Add Apps: Look for the Add Apps button within the Secure Folder.
Select Apps: Choose the apps you want to secure from the list of installed apps.
Confirm Selection: Tap Add to duplicate the selected apps into the Secure Folder.
Access Secured Apps: Open and use the apps from within the Secure Folder for added privacy.

4. Add Files to the Secure Folder

Hiding your documents and other files inside the Secure Folder protects them from unauthorized access.

Open Secure Folder: Navigate to and open the Secure Folder app.
Choose Add Files: Tap on the Add Files (or similar) option available within the folder.
Browse for Files: Navigate through your device storage to locate the files you wish to secure.
Select and Move: Choose the files and confirm to move them into the Secure Folder.
Check Placement: Verify that the files are now accessible only within the Secure Folder.

5. Customize Secure Folder Settings

Tailoring the Secure Folder settings enhances both its security and usability for your needs.

Access Secure Folder Settings: Open the Secure Folder app and tap the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
Select Settings: Choose Settings from the dropdown menu.
Adjust Options: Modify settings such as auto-lock time, notifications, and additional authentication preferences.
Save Changes: Confirm and save your customized settings.
Test Functionality: Navigate back to the Secure Folder to ensure the new settings are working as desired.

6. Organize and Manage Secure Folder Content

Keeping your Secure Folder organized makes it easier to manage your hidden photos, apps, and files.

Open Secure Folder: Launch the Secure Folder from your app drawer.
Create Folders: Tap on the option to create new folders or categories within the Secure Folder.
Move Items: Organize your content by moving photos, apps, or files into the appropriate folders.
Utilize Sorting Tools: Use built-in search and sort features to locate and manage your items efficiently.
Review Regularly: Periodically review the Secure Folder contents to ensure everything remains organized and secure.