Secure Messaging Apps — Signal, WhatsApp, and More

Learn which messaging apps keep your conversations private and how to set them up.

3 min read · 4 steps · Checked April 2026

1. Step 1. Why do messaging apps matter for privacy?

   Not all messaging apps are created equal when it comes to privacy.

   Some apps use "end-to-end encryption" — only you and the person you are talking to can read the messages. Not even the company that makes the app can see them.

   Encrypted apps: Signal, WhatsApp, iMessage (between Apple devices)
   NOT fully encrypted by default: Facebook Messenger, regular text messages (SMS), Instagram DMs

   If you share personal, health, or financial information through messages, using an encrypted app matters.

2. Step 2. Signal — The most private option

   Signal is recommended by privacy experts. It is completely free and shows no ads.

   1. Download "Signal" from the App Store or Google Play Store
   2. Open the app and enter your phone number
   3. Enter the verification code sent via text
   4. Set up a profile name (photo is optional)
   5. Signal checks your contacts to see who else uses it
   6. Tap a contact's name to start a conversation

   Everything in Signal is encrypted — messages, voice calls, video calls, and file sharing. Signal also has "Disappearing Messages" that auto-delete after a set time.

   Quick Tip

   Signal works best when both people use it. Encourage your family and close friends to download it too.

3. Step 3. WhatsApp — Already popular with family and friends

   WhatsApp is used by over 2 billion people worldwide. If your family already uses it, it is a good encrypted option.

   1. Download "WhatsApp" from the App Store or Google Play Store
   2. Enter your phone number and verify with the code sent to you
   3. Set up your name and profile photo
   4. WhatsApp finds contacts who already use it
   5. Tap a contact to start chatting

   WhatsApp uses the same encryption as Signal. It is owned by Meta (Facebook's parent company).

   WhatsApp is especially popular for staying in touch with family overseas because international calls and messages are free over WiFi.

4. Step 4. Tips for keeping your messages secure

   No matter which app you use:

   1. Turn on two-step verification — In app settings, look for "Two-Step Verification" and turn it on
   2. Be careful with backups — Message backups to iCloud or Google Drive may not be encrypted. Look for "Encrypted Backup" options.
   3. Watch out for scams — Encrypted does not mean every message is trustworthy. Be cautious of unknown numbers.
   4. Lock the app — Some apps let you require Face ID or fingerprint to open them
   5. Use disappearing messages — Both Signal and WhatsApp offer messages that auto-delete after a set time

   Encryption protects messages during delivery but cannot stop the other person from sharing them.

   Warning

   Be cautious of anyone messaging you from an unknown number claiming to be a friend or company. Verify their identity first.