#Secure text messaging apps how to#
#Secure text messaging apps update#
#Secure text messaging apps android#

The world's most widely used stand-alone chat and call app, WhatsApp has used Signal's end-to-end encryption protocol on all messages since 2016.

#Secure text messaging apps android#

But its impeccable security is well worth spending $4 for.ĭownload Threema: Android (opens in new tab), iOS (opens in new tab) 3. So what's the downside? Threema hasn't really caught on in the English-speaking world, so you may have a hard time finding other users unless you speak German. Charging a few bucks for the app makes that financially possible. While some other secure-messaging apps that haven't reached WhatsApp or Telegram adoption levels have pivoted toward the enterprise market to stay afloat, Threema still has one foot planted firmly in the consumer market. In addition to the usual raft of messaging features such as encrypted text, voice, picture, and video messaging, the app also includes file sharing (20MB per file), emojis, group messaging and a polling system for getting feedback from friends and contacts. You'll also get a scannable QR code that you can present to other Threema users if you meet in person but don't want to exchange names. Otherwise, you can associate your account with an email address or phone number, which makes it easier for other Threema users to find you. When you fire up the app, it generates a unique Threema ID key, allowing you to use the app completely anonymously - no names required. Threema is a very secure end-to-end encrypted messaging app that uses the NaCl cryptography library to protect your communications.

#Secure text messaging apps how to#

Here's our guide on how to use Signal.ĭownload Signal: Android (opens in new tab), iOS (opens in new tab) 2. User-friendliness without compromising on security makes Signal a fantastic option for users looking for an encrypted messaging and calling app. But unlike Facebook, Signal's parent company is a non-profit foundation created by an anarchist cryptographer and one of the founders of WhatsApp.Įase of use and strong, open-source, regularly audited encryption makes Signal a favorite of the security-conscious, with accolades from Edward Snowden and other privacy advocates. Signal's encryption protocol is so strong that WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger use it too.

#Secure text messaging apps update#

A new update lets you change phone numbers while keeping Signal account data as long as you're staying on the same device.

You can transfer Signal accounts (opens in new tab) from one Android phone to another, and from one iOS device to another. A Chrome browser plugin (opens in new tab) lets you use Signal from your desktop as well. Recent updates have added user-friendly features such as custom wallpapers and animated stickers, and Signal group video chats can now have up to 40 participants.Īll Signal messages can be set to self-destruct after a certain amount of time. You can send text messages, voice calls, group messages, media and attachments to your phone contacts, all without having to mess with PIN codes or special login credentials.