The world is changing. Technology is changing the way we communicate with each other, the way we bank, and even how we govern. As a result of this change, cyber security has become paramount to our safety. So what are some of the best ways to protect yourself? Let’s take a look at some popular encrypted messaging apps that have been recently released in recent years!
WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that allows you to exchange messages without paying for SMS. WhatsApp uses your phone’s Internet connection, so it works very fast and even works on most phones. WhatsApp also has a desktop version that you can download onto computers or laptops. In 2014 WhatsApp added end-to-end encryption as an automatic feature of the program, which means the contents of your messages cannot be seen by anyone other than those two people involved in the conversation. You can use WhatsApp on most phone operating systems, including Windows, iOS, and Android. WhatsApp is free to download but does charge a small price for the service after one year of use.
Telegram Messenger
Released in 2013, Telegram messenger is another popular encrypted messaging app. Via telegram, you can send messages, pictures, videos, audio, and even documents without them being seen by anyone other than the two users involved in the conversation. This app also has end-to-end encryption! You can set up different routes that expire if no messages are going between those two people within a certain period. You can also create groups with up to 5,000 members! Telegram is free to download but charges a small fee if you want access to some of the app’s more advanced features.
Viber
Viber is yet another popular messaging app that allows encrypted messages between people. The great thing about this app is that it works on mobile devices, PCs, and laptops. Encryption was added in 2014, so the contents of your message are kept private between you two users. Viber requires registration based on an email address or phone number, making it one of the most secure apps out there, considering you don’t need anything other than your basic information to use it. You can download the app for Android, Windows Phone, iOS, macOS, and Windows OS.
Conversations
Conversations (by Open Whisper Systems) is an encrypted messaging app that utilizes the same encryption protocol as WhatsApp Messenger. However, it uses peer-to-peer technology, which means messages are sent directly between devices without using a central server. The differentiating factor with this chat client is your messages are encrypted all the way to the device (phone or computer). It allows you to have private conversations by letting you control exactly who you want to see what you’re saying. This app works great for communicating with people you trust and want to have a private conversation with. Conversations is available on Android, iOS, and Google Chrome.
