Android can hide private photos, videos, documents, and other files without a questionable third-party vault app. Google Photos has Locked Folder for media, Files by Google has Safe Folder for general files, and Samsung adds Secure Folder for a fuller private space.
These steps apply to Android phones in general, including Pixel and Samsung Galaxy.
Does This Affect You?
Use this if you want certain files hidden from the normal gallery, file manager, or casual viewing when someone else handles your phone.
Hide Photos and Videos with Google Photos Locked Folder
- Open Google Photos.
- Tap your profile picture or initial.
- Open Locked Folder, or go through Photos settings if it is not shown directly.
- Confirm your phone screen lock.
- Tap Move items.
- Select photos or videos and tap Move.
Items moved to Locked Folder disappear from the main Photos grid, albums, and most other gallery views. Open Locked Folder and choose Move out if you want to return an item.
Hide Any File with Files by Google Safe Folder
- Install or open Files by Google.
- Open the menu and tap Safe Folder.
- Set a four-digit PIN.
- Tap the plus button.
- Choose Move or Copy.
- Select the files you want to protect.
Safe Folder can hold documents, PDFs, audio, and other file types. Moved files leave their original location and stay behind the Safe Folder PIN.
Samsung Secure Folder Option
On Samsung Galaxy phones, Secure Folder creates an encrypted private area that can hold files and whole separate app copies. It is better than a simple hidden folder when you want private app data, Gallery, Messages, or work files isolated.
Important Warnings
Use a Strong Phone Lock
Locked folders rely on your device security. Use a strong PIN, pattern, password, fingerprint, or face unlock before storing sensitive files.
Locked Folder Backup Behavior
Google Photos Locked Folder items may not back up by default and may stay local to that phone depending on your settings. Confirm backup behavior before resetting or replacing the device.
Safe Folder PIN Cannot Be Recovered
If you forget the Files by Google Safe Folder PIN, resetting it can delete what is inside. Store the PIN carefully.
Uninstall Carefully
If you plan to uninstall Files by Google or change phones, move important files out of Safe Folder first or confirm you can restore access afterward.
Sources
- Google Photos Help: Hide photos and videos in Locked Folder
- Google Files Help: Move files to the Safe Folder
- Samsung Support: Set up Secure Folder on your Galaxy phone