Samsung is going all-in on security awareness across the UK, launching a nationwide campaign to encourage Galaxy smartphone owners to activate the new anti-theft features introduced with the One UI 7 update.
The campaign supports the UK Home Office’s efforts to curb rising phone theft, with Samsung highlighting a multi-layered suite of tools to protect users and their data in high-risk situations.
A public safety alert sent to 40 million UK Galaxy users
One UI 7 brings Theft Protection to all Galaxy phones. | Image credit – Samsung
A safety message sent through the Samsung Members app and other channels will reach over 40 million Galaxy users this week. The company is also backing the push with a major awareness campaign spanning London’s Piccadilly Lights, train, and tube (metro) stations, social platforms, and online video ads.
The message is simple: if you own a Galaxy phone, and you've updated to One UI 7, now’s the time to activate Theft Protection.
Annika Bizon, VP of Mobile Experience at Samsung UK, said:
We must do everything we can to ensure the safety and security of our customers when they are using their mobile devices… We’re in constant collaboration with our partners across the industry, to look at new and existing solutions to help combat this complex issue.
What is Samsung Theft Protection?
Theft Protection is in the security and privacy settings."
Theft Protection is Samsung’s set of anti-theft features, building on standard Android protections like Google’s Find My Device. It got introduced with the Galaxy S25 series earlier this year and is now rolling out to many older Galaxy models. The features it includes are built into the Knox Security Platform and available through One UI 7.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s included:
New anti-robbery features in One UI 7
Identity Check: Requires biometric authentication in unfamiliar locations to make sensitive security changes.
Security Delay: Introduces a 1-hour delay before changes to biometric settings take effect—giving users time to trigger Remote Lock and take back control.
Existing anti-theft upgrades
Theft Detection Lock: Uses machine learning to detect snatching motions and instantly locks the screen.
Offline Device Lock: Locks the screen if the phone loses internet connection for an extended period.
Remote Lock: Allows users to remotely lock the phone using just their number and a quick verification step. They can also display a custom message on the screen and explore recovery options.
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These protections are now live on the Galaxy S22, S23, S24, and S25 series, the Galaxy Z Flip 5/6, the Galaxy Z Fold 5/6, and other devices receiving the One UI 7.0 update throughout 2025.
Samsung has published a detailed setup guide for users who want to activate these features and protect their Galaxy devices. It also walks you through how to lock or erase your phone remotely, track it using a Galaxy Watch or Find My Device, and change your account credentials after a loss.
The company even recommends creating a PIN and recovery message through the Samsung Find website in case of emergency.
Theft Protections settings menu on Pixel phones. | Image credit – Google
Most other phone manufacturers have also introduced theft protection functionality. Google, for example, has something called Theft Detection Lock, which utilizes AI and motion sensors to detect sudden movements indicative of theft (like snatching) and automatically locks the screen.
Other features on Pixel Phones include Offline Device Lock, which automatically locks the device if it's disconnected from the internet for too long.
Apple, on the other hand, has its Stolen Device Protection feature that requires biometric authentication for critical actions (accessing passwords, disabling Lost Mode, or erasing the device) when the iPhone is in unfamiliar locations.
Motorola also has its set of security features, with some newer ones being Security Scan and Phishing Detection. The former uses artificial intelligence to proactively scan the device for malware and potential vulnerabilities, while the latter identifies and warns users about suspicious links or websites, helping prevent phishing attacks.
Aleksandar is a tech enthusiast with a broad range of interests, from smartphones to space exploration. His curiosity extends to hands-on DIY experiments with his gadgets, and he enjoys switching between different brands to experience the latest innovations. Prior to joining PhoneArena, Aleksandar worked on the Google Art Project, digitizing valuable artworks and gaining diverse perspectives on technology. When he's not immersed in tech, Aleksandar is an outdoorsman who enjoys mountain hikes, wildlife photography, and nature conservation. His interests also extend to martial arts, running, and snowboarding, reflecting his dynamic approach to life and technology.
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