If the bootloader of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 is opened, a new security precaution has been revealed that disables the device’s camera.
Two senior members of XDA Developers, an Android-focused software development community, discovered the measure. The two users attempted to root the Galaxy Z Fold 3, but the phone’s camera stopped working as a result.
This means that facial recognition and third-party camera apps will no longer work.
Most operating systems include a bootloader, which is software that loads into the memory of a device. Using this software provides root access to the device, letting the user change or update settings, run specific apps that require admin-level permissions, and do other functions that are otherwise unavailable.
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However, doing so voids the Galaxy Z Fold 3’s warranty and may cause the phone to become unstable, leading to device failure or “bricking.” The user undertakes to root at his or her own risk.
With the Knox security framework, Samsung already makes it impossible to gain root access. Attempting to acquire root access sets off security flags on this framework, which can prevent Samsung Pay permanently.
Later, the senior members discovered that relocking the bootloader lets the camera work again, implying that the parameters that cause the camera to cease working may be detectable. A bypass like this has yet to be discovered.
