The Most Secure Messaging Apps You Can Use Right Now

Messaging apps are some of the most frequently used apps on smartphones, and they serve as one of the top channels where information is received or delivered. They also make it easier for us to communicate and connect with people no matter where we are. They also get updated with new features on a regular basis, optimizing and securing users’ experiences as technology continues to evolve.

Apart from the different interfaces and other surface-level features, end-to-end encryption is now considered a must-have for most platforms for better security and enhanced privacy of us users. This measure prohibits anyone (yes, including developers) from seeing the messages except you and the intended recipient, giving you peace of mind that your conversations are safer. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best secure and encrypted messaging apps you can use right now!

From App Store

Signal offers state-of-the-art end-to-end encryption powered by the open-source Signal Protocol. It is a cross-platform encrypted messaging service dedicated to keep conversations secure through end-to-end encrypted voice calling and encrypted texting. It allows you to share text, voice messages, photos, videos, GIFs, and files. Plus, you can make clear voice and video calls, as well as get together with groups securely. In addition, Signal is an open-source project supported by donations and grants, so there are no advertisements, no affiliate marketers, and no secret tracking. You can download the app on Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and Linux.

From App Store

Telegram is a cloud-based messaging service that focuses on speed and security. It is a messenger filled with a wide array of features, including seamless syncing. It means this can be used on all of your devices simultaneously, with your messages made available across all of your phones, tablets, and desktops.

For security, Telegram supports two layers of encryption. Server-client encryption is used in Cloud Chats (private and group chats), while Secret Chats use an additional layer of client-client encryption. Secret Chats also leave no trace on Telegram’s servers, support self-destructing messages, and don’t allow forwarding. This way, you can send all types of disappearing content—messages, photos, videos, and even files.

However, regardless of type, all data is encrypted in the same way—be it text, media, or files. Telegram’s encryption is based on 256-bit symmetric AES encryption, 2048-bit RSA encryption, and the Diffie-Hellman secure key exchange. You can download the app on Google Play or App Store.

Photo from App Store

Viber offers various communication features that allow you to send messages, make voice and video calls, start group chats and calls, join communities, share stickers and GIFs, delete and edit seen messages, and more. Your chats on Viber are also 100% synced between any device (mobile, tablet, and desktop) you use.

The platform also assures enhanced security features on its chats. Hence, the information you share is safeguarded by its security systems. Encryption keys also exist only on user devices, so no one—not even Viber—can read your messages. You may also verify who you’re chatting with by exchanging secret keys. You can download the app on Google Play or App Store.

From App Store

Pryvate is a secure messaging app that enhances the protection of conversations. It features voice encryption capabilities that enable subscribers to make free, voice over internet protocol (VoIP) calls that are secure, encrypted, and completely private. It also offers secured encrypted chat, email, and browsing.

It uses military-grade encryption combined with RSA 4096-bit and AES 256-bit encryption, so it has no risk of data being intercepted by hackers, criminals, or government surveillance agencies.

Additionally, you may easily erase sensitive messages or call logs with the auto-delete timer. If you’ve sent something you shouldn’t have, you can also delete your conversations from the recipient’s phone with the delete for all functions or delete all messages via the Remote Wipe function. You can download the app on Google Play or App Store.

From App Store

Wickr Me is another secure messaging app option that secures every message with a new key using advanced vetted end-to-end encryption. It enables you to instantly connect with your friends one-on-one or in groups, with fully encrypted voice calling, voice memos, as well as sharing of files, images, and videos.

In addition, Wickr Me does not require a phone number or email address to register. The app also does not store any metadata associated with the messages you receive and send. You can download the app on Google Play or App Store.

Being completely secure in this digital world is difficult, but it’s not impossible. Once you’ve chosen your preferred platform, make sure to also check the full features it offers so you can make the most out of them.

Choosing the right apps to download is just one of the ways to keep your smartphones secure. After all, a messaging app is what connects us to our family, friends, and loved ones despite the distance, so it has to be secure and trusted.

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