It used to be where you could select an image in the regular Samsung Gallery and select the option to move it to the secure folder. Now you have to go into the secure folder and unlock it, even if you've already entered your password, before the option to move top the secure folder is available.
Previously, before my Z Fold 7 on my s23u, I only needed to unlock the security folder using the password and the option to move an image to the secure folder would be available in the gallery app until I restarted my phone. Yes, I would still need to use my fingerprint to unlock the secure folder, but the move option would automatically authenticate me.
You're absolutely right to notice the change, Samsung’s Secure Folder Gallery Move Function has undergone some changes in recent updates, and many users have noticed differences in how it behaves—especially on newer devices like the Galaxy Z Fold series or S23 Ultra.
Unlocking the Secure Folder once (via password or fingerprint) would keep it authenticated.
Now, on newer devices and updates:
You must manually open and unlock the Secure Folder before the “Move to Secure Folder” option becomes available in the Gallery.
Even if you've already unlocked it once, the system may require a fresh unlock to re-enable that option.
This behavior seems to be part of a security design change, possibly to enforce stricter session control and prevent unauthorized access after idle periods
If you have any issue regarding the feature, please let us know, we will consider this as feedback and share with the concern team to work on this.
Well, I do have an issue with how it currently works. I don't see how the move option shortcutting to the authentication screen for the secure folder would be a security risk, as you still have to authenticate yourself. The way it has been changed literally makes the feature that much more difficult to use.
Thank you for sharing your feedback regarding the recent changes to the Secure Folder functionality. We understand your concerns about the removal of the shortcut to the authentication screen when using the "Move" option, and we appreciate your perspective on how this impacts usability.
While security enhancements are often implemented to align with evolving standards and protect user data, we recognize that changes to familiar workflows can affect efficiency and user experience. Your point about the continued requirement for authentication is valid, and we will ensure that your feedback is shared with the relevant development teams for further evaluation.
We remain committed to balancing security with usability and greatly value input from long-time users like yourself. Should you have any additional suggestions or require assistance with alternative methods, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
And its a greater Security risk having to unlock the Secure Folder in order to move something into it since it no longer auto-locks as soon as you exit it. You risk forgetting to relock it and leaving the Secure Folder exposed until it is locked by either the inactivity timeout or the "screen off" trigger, whichever it is set for.
We understand your point about the potential security implications of requiring manual unlocking to move content into the Secure Folder, especially now that it no longer auto-locks upon exit.
Your observation about the risk of leaving the Secure Folder exposed until the inactivity timeout or screen-off trigger is valid and highlights an important aspect of user security and convenience. We appreciate your feedback and will ensure it is communicated to the relevant development teams for further evaluation.
Samsung remains committed to providing secure and user-friendly experiences, and input from experienced users like yourself plays a vital role in shaping future updates.
