This means your messages are automatically backed up to iCloud and stored on Apple’s servers. Most iPhone users tend to have iCloud Backups enabled by default. However, Howtogeek recently highlighted a loophole in Apple’s system, linked to iCloud backup. Photos videos and attachments are similarly encrypted. Security, Encryption and AuthenticationiMessenger uses end-to-end encryption, so only you and the recipient can see your messages. Function-wise, other than some fun iMessage gimmicks (Animoji, for instance), the main difference between iMessage and WhatsApp is that Apple’s offering also supports SMS. What is it? The onboard messenger app on iOS, it’s usually the go-to messenger if you and most of your friends are on Apple devices. It now wants to share this data with Facebook, presumably so you can be targeted with ads. However, if you communicate with a business account on the platform, WhatsApp does have access to your phone number, device ID, location, details of transactions made over the app and details of products you’ve interacted with. It does not have access to your private chats and calls, messages, contact information, shared location or WhatsApp group information. PrivacyWhatsApp says it cannot view the content of your encrypted messages.

WhatsApps app and implementation of the signal protocol is closed source so may be adapted. Security, Encryption and AuthenticationWhatsApp messages, calls, images and all items sent or shared are encrypted using the Signal end-to-end encryption protocol, which is an independently developed robust solution. It tends to set the bar in terms of user features, including group chats for up to 256 participants, voice and video calls, in-app photos and videos, as well as a desktop app.

What is it? With an estimated 2 billion active users in January 2021, it’s the world’s most popular mobile messenger app.

Signal messenger security audit