SMS text messages are unencrypted. This means that they can be intercepted by hackers. If you want to keep your messages secure, the easiest solution is to use a messaging app with built-in end-to-end encryption. The best app for this purpose is Signal.
Table of Contents
Signal
End-to-End Encrypted Messaging
Signal messages are end-to-end encrypted. Signal cannot read your messages and they cannot be intercepted en route.
Additionally:
“Unlike any other popular messaging apps, Signal also does not have access to your contacts, social graph, group data, group membership, profile name, profile avatar, location data, gif searches, etc. – and we don’t include trackers, ads, or analytics in our software at all.”
Open Source
Signal clients and the Signal server are open source. The code is published on Github.
Transparency & Trust
The protocol has been audited. Additionally, because the app is encrypted and minimizes the data it retains, it can turn over little information in response to legal requests. Signal keeps a log of legal requests on its website.
Additional Features
Beyond messaging, Signal also supports voice and video calls.
Apps
Signal has desktop apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It has mobile apps for Android and iOS.
Basic Setup
We recommend that you setup Signal to use disappearing messages by default. Additionally, for optimal security you can verify contacts with whom you communicate regularly. You should also enable Screen Lock and Screen Security.