Samsung Electronics has just introduced the Auto Blocker security tool designed to protect mobile phones and check the security of applications installed on mobile phones.

“At Samsung we continually strive to protect users from security attacks, and with the introduction of Auto Blocker, users can continue to enjoy the benefits of our open ecosystem, while being confident in the security of their mobile experience,” said EVP and Head of Security, Team Mobile eXperience Business, Samsung Electronics , Dr. Seungwon Shin in a press release received in Jakarta, Monday.

Auto Blocker is a package option of additional security measures that gives users more options when exploring the customization made possible by the open ecosystem on Samsung Galaxy devices. This tool can be found on Samsung devices running the One UI 6 interface.

“We continue to empower our users to choose for themselves what best suits their needs – rather than us deciding on their behalf, and Auto Blocker is no exception,” said Shin.

Auto Blocker has a feature that can prevent sideloading, installing applications from unauthorized sources, for example outside the Google Play Store and Galaxy Store. Intentional sideloading is usually used to add device customization and functionality.

Users who sideload in a safe way will not experience any changes because Samsung turns off the Auto blocker in the main settings.

However, for users who don't understand sideloading, turning on Auto Blokcer can provide peace of mind because the tool can eliminate the possibility of experiencing cybersecurity problems. Cybercriminals may persuade users to install malicious applications.

Auto Blocker also has application security checking capabilities to help detect potential malware and prevent installation of malicious software via USB cable. Auto Blokcer can protect users when another party has physical access to the device, for example when charging in a public place.

Message Guard in Auto Blocker can mitigate Zero Click attacks (direct image messages that hide malicious code). This feature, which was originally launched in the Messaging application from Google and Samsung, has now been expanded to protect users who use third-party applications.