The encryption features Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS). It also uses the powerful encryption protocol developed for Signal by Open Whisper Systems, which is considered the industry standard. It’s easy to use and offers features such as location and file sharing, gifs, and even desktop support.

With over 1 billion users, WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps. We reviewed 10 encrypted messaging apps and present their pros and cons. However, their additional features – and shortcomings – are all different. Most importantly, that means even the service provider can’t see your messages – not even abusive employers, hackers, or government officials. To make your choice easier, we have compiled a list of apps that offer end-to-end encryption, which means that no one can see your conversations unless they have a private key to decrypt your message. In fact, even the most popular messaging app in the world is not immune to scams (check out scams on WhatsApp). Many messaging apps on the market are not all as secure as they say. If security is your first point of call over popularity, then read on.Ĭhoose an app that uses end-to-end encryption and open-source code and does not store your data. Security and privacy within messaging apps is becoming more important.Telegram, known for its tight privacy controls, has struggled to find mass appeal, with most of its users being based in the Middle east.WeChat is used by the majority of people in China, since apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are banned.

Facebook owns two of the market leaders (WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger), which means that most of the world uses Facebook-owned messaging apps.

In 2022, about 83% of the US uses Facebook Messenger, whereas the majority of Latin Americans opt for WhatsApp.

In fact, WhatsApp is the most used messaging app globally.

WhatsApp is used by over 90% of people in countries where it is the leading messaging app.

According to Statista (2022), WeChat, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger remain the world’s most popular messaging apps despite Facebook’s questionable privacy practices. While encryption and privacy play a vital role in selecting which messaging app to use, it’s also necessary to use the messaging apps that our friends use.

Signal secure messaging