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How to secure individual apps with the fingerprint scanner on your Samsung phone

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By Daniel Petrov

Updated: Dec 10, 2014, 9:13 AM

Samsung went all copycat and included a fingerprint scanner embedded in the physical home key underneath the display of the Galaxy S5 for the first time. The tradition was then carried on with the Note 4 phablet, and now we are expecting said scanner to be a staple in the design of Samsung flagships from now on, because, well, you can't just roll back on such an option.

While Samsung's solution is a bit clunkier than the touch-based fingerprint sensor of Apple, it still serves as an added layer of protection towards accessing the phone, authorizing online payments, or switching profiles. Did you know you can secure individual apps with it as well? No? Here's what you need to do:

1. Download and install the FingerSecurity app, which is tailor-made to utilize the scanner on your Samsung phone;

2. Fire up the application, and go to the list of apps that can be secured with it, choosing those you deem worthy of protection, like your media, docs, saved games, text messaging or Facebook tools of choice;

3. Provide an alternative password for access granting, in case something goes awry with the fingerprint reading;

4. You will now have to scan your fingertip each time you want to use the apps you've protected, and they won't be accessible to anyone else that is using your phone, as they lock up again immediately after you've done your work, and exited them.

Developer: Rick Clephas	Download: Android
Category: Tools	Price: Free, with in-app purchases

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Daniel, a devoted tech writer at PhoneArena from 2010 to 2025, has been engrossed in mobile technology since the Windows Mobile era. His expertise spans mobile hardware, software, and carrier networks, and he's keenly interested in the future of digital health, car connectivity, and 5G. Beyond his professional pursuits, Daniel finds balance in travel, reading, and exploring new tech innovations, while contemplating the ethical and privacy implications of our digital future.