Samsung Knox adds new data protection features for Galaxy users

Samsung on Wednesday introduced new features for Knox, the security management software for its devices. One of the new features claims to make sharing files such as photos, videos and documents more secure by adding different permissions and expiration dates for the data. The other added feature enables end-to-end encryption of system backups created for the handset. Both solutions are built-in, proprietary offerings from Samsung, with no third-party apps required to be installed.

Private sharing on Samsung Knox

In a blog after Titled “The Knox Journals,” Samsung detailed the new features coming to Knox for Galaxy devices. The first addition is Private Sharing in Quick Share. The South Korean tech conglomerate says it’s a privacy-protecting file-sharing feature that allows for secure file transfers between users.

Data shared via Private Sharing will reportedly only be accessible by the recipient. Users can also add an extra layer of security by setting an automatic timer for the files to be visible, or by choosing contacts who can open the files. Additionally, additional restrictions such as banning screenshots, read-only access, and revoking access at any time can also be enabled. Samsung says users can share up to 20 files at a time with a total size of up to 200MB.

To use Private Sharing, Galaxy users need to select the file they want to share and tap the button. Quick share option. Then they need to tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen, followed by the Enable private sharing choice.

Enhanced data protection

According to Samsung, the Galaxy S24 and newer models can take advantage of the Enhanced Data Protection feature when syncing or backing up their data to Samsung Cloud on Galaxy devices. It is said to offer end-to-end encryption for the backed up data. According to the company, the data remains safe even if the account credentials are stolen or the server is compromised.

Enhanced data protection feature on Samsung Knox
Photo Credit: Samsung

When first enabled, users will be required to write down a recovery code, which will come in handy if they lose their device. Samsung says the end-to-end encrypted data cannot be accessed by anyone, including the company itself.