Meta tests default end-to-end encryption on Messenger

This page was translated using AI and machine learning before being reviewed by a human editor in your native language.

(Pocket-lint) – Meta has announced that it is testing secure storage on Messenger, which will allow you to save end-to-end encrypted chats, and is also testing plans to enable end-to-end encryption by default for message threads on the platform.

End-to-end encryption means that only participants in the messages can view them and Meta does not have access to them unless you have reported the messages. This is a feature available on other Meta platforms like WhatsApp, but not on Messenger at the moment.

Currently, you have to opt-in to end-to-end encrypted messages on Messenger by opening a secret conversation – which you can read how to do below – and those messages are then stored on your device, so if you lose it, you’ll lose it. also messages.

In addition to testing end-to-end encryption by default, Meta also tests secure storage to back up those messages in case you lose your phone or want to restore your message history to a new supported device.

Secure storage means that Meta will not have access to your messages unless you have reported them, as with the messages themselves. You will need a PIN to restore your messages to a new device.

Meta said: “This week we will start testing the default end-to-end encrypted chats between some people. If you are in the test group, some of your most frequent conversations will automatically be end-to-end encrypted, so which means you won’t have to choose this feature.

He adds: “You will still have access to your message history, but any new messages or calls with this person will be end-to-end encrypted.”

How do I send an end-to-end encrypted message on Messenger?

If you don’t want to wait for end-to-end encryption to be enabled by default on Messenger, you can still send a private and secure message, just follow these steps:

1. Open Messenger
2. Tap on chat with the contact you want to chat with securely.
3. Tap on their profile icon at the top of the screen.
4. Tap on “Go to Secret Chat”.
5. You are now in an end-to-end encrypted conversation.

Written by Britta O’Boyle.