Encrypted Instant Messengers for various devices .
-Narayana KNR
If you are currently using an Instant Messenger like WhatsApp, Viber, LINE, Telegram or Threema you should pick an alternative here.
Mobile: Signal
Signal is a mobile app developed by Open Whisper Systems. The app provides instant messaging, as well as voice and video calling. All communications are end-to-end encrypted. Signal is free and open source, enabling anyone to verify its security by auditing the code. The development team is supported by community donations and grants. There are no advertisements, and it doesn't cost anything to use.Warning: Requires a mobile number to register but you can securely use a disposable number.
OS: Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Debian-based Linux
Wire
Wire is an app developed by Wire Swiss GmbH. The Wire app allows users to exchange end-to-end encrypted instant messages, as well as make voice and video calls. Wire is free and open source, enabling anyone to verify its security by auditing the code. The development team is backed by Iconical and they will monetize in the future with premium features/services.Caution: The company keeps a list of all the users you contact until you delete your account.
OS: Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, Web
Desktop: Ricochet
Ricochet uses the Tor network to reach your contacts without relying on messaging servers. It creates a hidden service, which is used to rendezvous with your contacts without revealing your location or IP address. Instead of a username, you get a unique address that looks like ricochet:rs7ce36jsj24ogfw. Other Ricochet users can use this address to send a contact request - asking to be added to your contacts list.
OS: Windows, macOS, Linux.
Worth Mentioning
- ChatSecure - ChatSecure is a free and open source messaging app that features OTR encryption over XMPP.
- Cryptocat - Encrypted open source messenger. Supports file sharing and multiple devices. Available for Windows, Linux and macOS.
- Kontalk - A community-driven instant messaging network. Supports end-to-end encryption. Both client-to-server and server-to-server channels are fully encrypted.
- Conversations - An open source Jabber/XMPP client for Android 4.4+ smart phones. Supports end-to-end encryption with either OMEMO or openPGP. There is also Conversations Legacy which still supports OTR.
- List of OTR Clients - Wikipedia
- The Matrix protocol and it's various clients such as Riot.im. A successor of XMPP.
Related Information
- Ricochet, the Messenger That Beats Metadata, Passes Security Audit | Motherboard
- Chatting in Secret While We're All Being Watched - firstlook.org
- Advanced users with special needs can download the Signal APK directly. Most users should not do this under normal circumstances.
- Secure Messaging App Wire Stores Everyone You've Ever Contacted in Plain Text | Motherboard
- Telegram encryption isn't secure.
- Telegram is marketed as a private messenger, but it's not private by default.
Comments
Post a Comment