Samsung’s One UI 8.5 update significantly boosts theft protection by expanding Identity Check. The feature now requires biometric verification outside trusted locations to access Secure Folder, prevent Smart Switch account transfers, and block changes to USB settings, safeguarding sensitive data.
Losing a phone is stressful enough, but the risk of a thief accessing private data adds a significant layer of panic. Samsung’s upcoming One UI 8.5 update could deliver a major boost to security on Galaxy devices, making it much harder for unauthorized users to pierce through protection layers and compromise personal information. The core of this robust defense lies in the expanded functionality of Identity Check.
If you’re not aware, “Identity Check” is a powerful feature from previous One UI versions. It activates automatically when your device senses it is outside a “trusted location,” such as your home or office. When this security setting is active, it demands immediate biometric verification—a quick fingerprint or face scan—before allowing access to sensitive settings or private data, even if a thief happens to possess your screen PIN or password. This approach creates a powerful shield against attempts at social engineering or physical theft.
One UI 8.5 will make your Secure Folder and private data immune to thieves
With One UI 8.5, Samsung will extend the reach of Identity Check to cover several critical areas of your handset (spotted by Android Authority).
The update ensures that nobody can unlock your Secure Folder (where sensitive files and apps reside) or access the upcoming Private Albums feature in the Gallery without your unique biometric identity.
Furthermore, Identity Check will now prevent unauthorized individuals from transferring your Samsung account using Smart Switch. This will block thieves from gaining deeper control over your data on another device.
Lastly, the new protection covers disabling the Auto Blocker (a key defense against unauthorized app installs) and changing USB connection settings. This effectively stops malware installation or backdoor data transfers via a physical connection.
These expanded protections offer a major quality-of-life upgrade for Galaxy devices. They will add new barriers for anyone attempting to exploit a lost or stolen phone. While One UI 8.5 delivers this enhanced security, Galaxy owners must remember that Identity Check is not automatically enabled. To fully benefit, users need to manually turn on the feature within the “Security and privacy” settings and define their trusted locations. This way, you’ll ensure the shield is fully active when they need it most.
