Based on our research, Samsung Notes is not HIPAA compliant because it does not meet the requirements set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to safeguard protected health information (PHI).
What is Samsung Notes?
Samsung Notes is a note-taking and organizational app integrated into Samsung devices that enables users to create, edit, organize, and sync handwritten, typed, or audio transcribed notes across devices via Samsung Cloud. With Samsung Notes, users can manage personal thoughts, lists, memos, and voice-recorded content in a centralized platform. However, Samsung Notes is not HIPAA compliant and should not be used to store or process PHI.
Will Samsung sign a business associate agreement (BAA)?
No, Samsung will not sign a business associate agreement in relation to Samsung Notes. According to the Samsung Services Terms and Conditions (updated February 4, 2025), the company explicitly prohibits the use of advanced intelligence features for transmitting, storing, or processing health information subject to HIPAA without an executed BAA. No such BAA is offered for Samsung Notes.
“You may not use the advanced intelligence features … to transmit, store, or process health information subject to United States HIPAA … except as permitted by an executed HIPAA BAA (Business Associate Agreement).”
Is Samsung Notes HIPAA compliant?
Samsung Notes does not sign a BAA, and its Terms explicitly discourage using the app for storing or processing PHI. As a result, Samsung Notes is not HIPAA compliant.
The HIPAA compliant solution: Paubox
Paubox has developed a HIPAA compliant email and texting solution that makes it easier for providers to connect with their patients. It eliminates the need for third-party apps or logins, allowing patients to receive secure, encrypted texts and emails directly on their phones.
Learn more: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
FAQs
What is HIPAA?
HIPAA sets national standards for protecting the privacy and security of certain health information.
HIPAA is designed to protect the privacy and security of individuals’ health information and to ensure that healthcare providers and insurers can securely exchange electronic health information. Violations of HIPAA can result in significant fines and penalties for covered entities.
Who does HIPAA apply to?
HIPAA applies to covered entities, which include healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. It also applies to business associates of these covered entities. These are entities that perform certain functions or activities on behalf of the covered entity.
What is a business associate agreement?
A BAA is a legally binding contract establishing a relationship between a covered entity under HIPAA and its business associates. The purpose of this agreement is to ensure the proper protection of PHI as required by HIPAA regulations.
Kirsten Peremore
