Privacy warning: A photo bug on popular phones may expose secure files
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For many of us, smartphones are a daily companion—used for capturing memories, staying in touch, and keeping personal information close.
That’s why it’s so important to understand how to protect our privacy, especially when technology doesn’t work exactly as intended.
Samsung device owners should take note: a newly discovered bug may allow private photos and videos—specifically those saved in the Secure Folder—to show up outside of it, unintentionally exposing content that was meant to stay private.
If you or someone you know uses a Samsung phone, here’s what to know and what you can do to stay safe.
Samsung’s Secure Folder is designed as a safe space on your phone to store sensitive content like photos, videos, apps, and documents.
However, a recent issue discovered by SamMobile has shown that this feature isn’t working as expected for some users running the latest One UI 7 software.
The issue is tied to the Gallery app’s “Stories” feature.
These stories are usually collections of photos automatically grouped into slideshows.
The problem? Even when stories are created inside the Secure Folder, the notifications about them may appear outside of it.
Tapping on the notification can then show your private media—without needing to unlock the Secure Folder itself.
The good news is, there’s a simple way to reduce your risk. You can turn off the automatic story creation feature by following these steps:
Doing this will stop the Gallery from automatically generating stories from your photos—helping ensure your private content stays private.
This issue may affect newer Samsung phones running One UI 7, including:
If you’ve already updated to One UI 7, it’s a good idea to apply the steps above as a precaution. Samsung is expected to release a software fix soon.
Samsung has responded, stating: "The One UI 7 rollout schedule is being updated to ensure the best possible experience. The new timing and availability will be shared shortly."
This means Samsung is aware of the bug and is pausing updates while they work on a fix.
In the meantime, disabling auto-generated stories is the best way to stay safe.
Since we’re talking about phone care, here’s a helpful tip: try to keep your phone charged above 50% and avoid letting the battery run completely flat.
Over time, this helps extend battery life.
Also, try not to leave your phone plugged in once it’s fully charged—especially if you’re using it at the same time—as it can gradually wear down your battery.
As we rely more on our phones and other smart devices, it’s important to stay informed and make small changes that protect our privacy. Simple settings like the one mentioned here can make a big difference.
If you know someone who owns a Samsung phone, especially a newer model, consider sharing this article with them.
Taking action now could save them a lot of worry later!
Read next: The risk of a common phone habit in the shower: a woman’s cautionary tale
Have you ever run into a privacy issue with your device? Do you have any tech tips that help you feel more secure online? Let us know in the comments. Your advice might help another reader feel more confident using their phone.
That’s why it’s so important to understand how to protect our privacy, especially when technology doesn’t work exactly as intended.
Samsung device owners should take note: a newly discovered bug may allow private photos and videos—specifically those saved in the Secure Folder—to show up outside of it, unintentionally exposing content that was meant to stay private.
If you or someone you know uses a Samsung phone, here’s what to know and what you can do to stay safe.
Some smartphone users are being urged to adjust their settings to better protect private photos. Image Source: Pexels / Joshua Woroniecki.
Samsung’s Secure Folder is designed as a safe space on your phone to store sensitive content like photos, videos, apps, and documents.
However, a recent issue discovered by SamMobile has shown that this feature isn’t working as expected for some users running the latest One UI 7 software.
The issue is tied to the Gallery app’s “Stories” feature.
These stories are usually collections of photos automatically grouped into slideshows.
The problem? Even when stories are created inside the Secure Folder, the notifications about them may appear outside of it.
Tapping on the notification can then show your private media—without needing to unlock the Secure Folder itself.
How to turn off this feature and protect your photos
The good news is, there’s a simple way to reduce your risk. You can turn off the automatic story creation feature by following these steps:
- Open the Gallery app inside your Secure Folder
- Tap the Menu button
- Go to Settings
- Turn off "Auto create stories"
Doing this will stop the Gallery from automatically generating stories from your photos—helping ensure your private content stays private.
Also read: Want a longer battery life? Try these tricks that you never knew existed!
What devices are affected?
This issue may affect newer Samsung phones running One UI 7, including:
- Galaxy S24
- Galaxy Z Flip 6
- Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Possibly the upcoming Galaxy S25
If you’ve already updated to One UI 7, it’s a good idea to apply the steps above as a precaution. Samsung is expected to release a software fix soon.
Also read: Stop killing your iPhone battery! The two critical temperatures you need to maintain
What Samsung is saying
Samsung has responded, stating: "The One UI 7 rollout schedule is being updated to ensure the best possible experience. The new timing and availability will be shared shortly."
This means Samsung is aware of the bug and is pausing updates while they work on a fix.
In the meantime, disabling auto-generated stories is the best way to stay safe.
Also read: Is your phone due for a digital detox? Experts say yes
While you're here: a quick note about charging habits
Since we’re talking about phone care, here’s a helpful tip: try to keep your phone charged above 50% and avoid letting the battery run completely flat.
Over time, this helps extend battery life.
Also, try not to leave your phone plugged in once it’s fully charged—especially if you’re using it at the same time—as it can gradually wear down your battery.
As we rely more on our phones and other smart devices, it’s important to stay informed and make small changes that protect our privacy. Simple settings like the one mentioned here can make a big difference.
If you know someone who owns a Samsung phone, especially a newer model, consider sharing this article with them.
Taking action now could save them a lot of worry later!
Read next: The risk of a common phone habit in the shower: a woman’s cautionary tale
Have you ever run into a privacy issue with your device? Do you have any tech tips that help you feel more secure online? Let us know in the comments. Your advice might help another reader feel more confident using their phone.
