Here are four things to look for in a secure messaging app.
- Is it open source, meaning are there multiple people who have visibility into it to hold it accountable?
- Does it have end-to-end encryption? And I talk about this in a different video. This is absolutely vital.
- What’s happening to your data? Also, what kind of data is being gathered? Who owns it? How is it being used? Who has visibility into it? How is it being retained? Where it is being retained? And who owns the app or company?
- Nice bonus. Can the messages self destruct? Is there an expiration date you can set where your messages will delete or disappear?
Those are just 4 of many things to look for when you’re looking for a secure messaging app.
One of the reasons why Signal comes highly recommended as one of the more secure messaging apps is because it satisfies all of those in a satisfactory way. It also does not sell user data or meta data, and even has a more recent function of being able to share your username instead of your number to connect with another user.
A couple of things to keep in mind. Signal, like almost every app, has had security vulnerabilities in the past. But they are good about patching them quickly, so ensure your app is always up to date. Also remember that no app is completely always secure. We as humans also create vulnerabilities in how we use apps. Also, even though Signal might be recommended currently, it may not always be. So keep vigilant about updates and changes to any of the above criteria. Stay secure as we get closer and closer to liberation.
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