Your Samsung phone just got a big security upgrade for free (these models included)

If you're a Galaxy phone user, Samsung warns that you need to activate some new features as soon as you can.

In a press release earlier this week, Samsung explained that as phone thefts continue to rise around the world, it's critical for users to make sure they enable their phone's security measures – some of which are new to One UI 7.

Also: Phone theft is on the rise - 7 ways to protect your device before it's too late

One of the areas getting an update is Theft Protection, which Samsung called "a multi-layered suite of features developed to safeguard personal data." Existing and updated features in this suite include:

• Theft Detection Lock: This feature uses machine learning to detect motions associated with theft (like a sudden snatch and rapid acceleration), and instantly locks the screen to stop unauthorized access. Pixel devices introduced ...