WhatsApp is known for its end-to-end encryption and excellent chat features. However, it isn’t the most secure messaging platform out there. It was acquired by Facebook, and although privacy protections were announced soon after the acquisition, the fact remains that Facebook knows some of your data whether you like it or not. So where can you go when you are searching for WhatsApp alternatives? I’ve looked at four different apps and detailed what they offer as a WhatsApp alternative, as well as their key differences with WhatsApp.
Why is WhatsApp so Popular?
WhatsApp is a messaging app that has been around since 2009 and is one of the most popular apps in the world. It has over 1.2 billion monthly active users and is used for everything from chatting with friends to collaborating on projects.
The app is so popular because it’s free, easy to use, and works on almost every major phone system. WhatsApp is the most familiar app you should consider if you want to make sure your conversations stay private. WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption, meaning your message can’t be read by anyone with access to it, including WhatsApp employees. The app also has no advertising and requires no personal information in order to sign up.
Why you should consider switching to a different messaging app?
In today’s world, privacy is a major concern for many people. That is why many people have switched from WhatsApp to other messaging apps. The problem with WhatsApp is that it was bought by Facebook, and Facebook has a history of making changes to the app without informing its users.
For example, WhatsApp changed its terms of service in 2016 and started sharing user data with Facebook. This change was not well received by the WhatsApp community, and many people began to look for alternatives.
The WhatsApp privacy policy was updated again in 2018 and now includes information about WhatsApp’s new features, such as WhatsApp Status and WhatsApp Payments. The policy also states that WhatsApp will collect data about how you use the app, including your interactions with friends and family, as well as your phone number and IP address.
This policy change caused even more uproar, and WhatsApp was forced to backtrack and allow users to opt out of the new features. However, the damage was done, and many people decided to switch to a different messaging app
WhatsApp is a great messaging app, but what if you want more privacy?
WhatsApp has certain disadvantages, such as the lack of privacy and security features that other messaging applications provide. If you want to send messages without being tracked, there are a few different apps that might be more appropriate for you.
What are the best alternatives to WhatsApp?
Signal Private Messenger
One of the most popular and secure messaging apps.
Send messages and make calls more safely and securely with Signal’s end-to-end encryption. Signal Private Messenger offers the functionality of standard text messaging along with encrypted voice-over-IP (VoIP) calling, multimedia messaging, and the ability to send encrypted messages that will disappear after a certain amount of time. Signal lets you send text messages, make voice and video calls, create group chats, and share files with friends, family, and colleagues, all without compromising your privacy. Signal also has a feature called “hidden chats” that allow you to send messages that disappear after a set amount of time.
Key differences between Signal and WhatsApp:
- WhatsApp is owned by Facebook, while Signal is not.
- WhatsApp offers end-to-end encryption, while Signal offers it by default.
- WhatsApp shares some data with Facebook, while Signal does not share any data with any other company.
WhatsApp is a great messaging app, but it doesn’t offer the same level of privacy and security as Signal. If you’re looking for an alternative to WhatsApp that will keep your conversations private, Signal is a good option.
Threema
The most private WhatsApp alternative
Threema is the world’s best secure messenger app. No other app comes close to its level of privacy, ease of use, and independence. Threema offers end-to-end encrypted messaging with multimedia support and a strong focus on user privacy. With Threema, messages are encrypted and you can make sure that no one but the intended recipient can read your messages. It enables you to send messages, photos, videos, voice messages, and files between Threema users. If you are offline, your messages are saved on the device and will be delivered as soon as possible. Unlike other messaging apps, Threema does not require your phone number or email address, so you can easily stay anonymous.
Key differences between Threema and WhatsApp:
- Threema mobile app is geared toward business use, while WhatsApp is meant to be used by the general public.
- You do not require a SIM card to use Threema, but you must have a phone number in WhatsApp.
- Threema uses “two-way opt-in.” This implies that you must add or accept contacts before being able to communicate with them. It protects you against unsolicited communications from strangers.
- WhatsApp is free whereas Threema costs around $3.99.
If you’re looking for a WhatsApp alternative that is more private and secure, Threema is a good option.
Wire
A newer app that is quickly gaining traction.
The Wire is the messaging app that changes everything. With a sleek, intuitive design, Wire lets you easily stay in touch with friends and family. What’s more, Wire offers unique features that make communication faster, easier and more fun than ever before. Whether you’re looking to share files, send text or have a long conversation, Wire is the perfect tool for the job. The Wire is the ideal solution for work and personal communications, easily switching between business and pleasure with a single app. Never worry about switching devices: call, text, share photos and videos all through your smartphone. The Wire is completely free to download and use, regardless of where you’re calling from or to.
Key differences between Wire and WhatsApp:
- Wire Personal is a secure messaging platform for individual use that uses end-to-end encryption, Wire Enterprise, and Wire for Government are two modes based on its security technology. There is just one version of WhatsApp.
- Wire is compatible with all major platforms and allows you to access your account from eight synchronized devices.
Wire’s unique features make communication faster, easier, and more fun than WhatsApp. If you’re looking for a WhatsApp alternative that offers more features and flexibility, Wire is a good option.
Session
A secure WhatsApp alternative
A Session is a free, open-source, and private messenger that uses end-to-end encryption to keep your conversations safe from eavesdroppers. With Session, you can have one-on-one conversations or group chats with up to 20 people. You can also create “burner” accounts that expire after a certain period of time, so you can have temporary conversations that are not associated with your main account. Conversation history helps you find old messages quickly, and a built-in chat history saves your conversations for later reference.
Key differences between Session and WhatsApp:
- Session is open-source, while WhatsApp is not.
- Session offers “burner” accounts, while WhatsApp does not.
- WhatsApp requires a phone number, while Session does not
A Session is a great WhatsApp alternative if you’re looking for an open-source and private messaging app.
Wickr Me
A private messenger for secure communications.
Wickr Me is an alternative WhatsApp messaging app that sets the standard for privacy policy and security. With Wickr Me, you can be sure that your conversations are safe and secure. Wickr is the most secure messaging app in the world. It allows you to send encrypted messages, photos, and videos to your friends and family that self-destruct after they are read. The self-destruction can be set from one second up to six days. Your Wickr messages cannot be intercepted by hackers, governments, or internet and mobile providers because it uses a combination of state-of-the-art asymmetric public and symmetric key algorithms to protect all communications.
Key differences between Wickr Me and WhatsApp:
- You can create group chats with up to 50 people on Wickr Me, while the maximum number of members in a WhatsApp group chat is 256.
- Wickr Me lets you set expiration dates on your messages, so they self-destruct after a certain period of time. WhatsApp does not have this feature.
- No phone number is required to use Wickr Me, but you must have a phone number in WhatsApp.
- WhatsApp is owned by Facebook, while Wickr Me is owned by Amazon.
The free and premium versions of the app both have a number of security measures, such as self-destructing messages, content shredding, and an inability to take screenshots (on Android only).
Conclusion
There are a number of WhatsApp alternative messaging apps available if you’re looking for a more secure messaging app. The Signal is one of the most popular and secure messaging apps. A Telegram is a great option if you’re looking for speed and security. Wire offers unique features that make communication faster and more fun. And Wickr Me is a good choice if you’re concerned about privacy and security. Whichever app you choose, you can be sure that your conversations are safe and secure. Thanks for reading! I hope this was helpful. 🙂
