In this article, we'll analyze how to encrypt text messages on your gadgets. You will learn how to encrypt messages on your smartphone, as well as the pros and cons of the most popular applications for this purpose.
How to encrypt text messages: 4 tips
If you've never sent encrypted messages before, it may seem a complicated process with extra technical difficulties. In fact, it's almost as easy as sending regular messages. Here are some helpful tips on how to encrypt text messages you send.
Use end-to-end encryption
The easiest and most accessible way for most users to encrypt text messages is to use separate apps to send confidential private messages. Mobile apps with end-to-end encryption are considered the most reliable in the world. But it's important to understand that even if an app uses the most reliable method, it doesn't mean that the messages will be fully encrypted. The full exchange of encrypted messages between two subscribers is only possible if the other subscriber has the decryption key.
2. Set a password on the messaging application
This tip will work for iPhone owners. To block messages on your iPhone, go to «Settings» and select «Screen Time». Set a limit of 1 minute and a password for this function. After that, open the «Always Allowed» list and delete the app that is responsible for sending messages from the list. Now, you must enter the password in order to use this application.
Send regular text messages without access to Wi-Fi or mobile InternetHow to encrypt text messages when sending regular text messages? Download Encrypt Messages and Text app for Android or Paranoia Text Encryption app for iPhone. In addition, you need to exchange passwords with the person who will receive encrypted messages. After that, you can encrypt your messages in the app and send encrypted texts using the regular message function. They can only be read by the person you gave the password to.
4. Use a VPN service
For extra security, install a VPN on your gadget. The program will help you hide your IP address and make it harder for fraudsters to access your location and other confidential information.
By installing a Yesim VPN provider, you can protect your data without losing connection speed.
How to encrypt text messages through apps
As a rule, all applications operate on roughly the same principle. The process of encrypting messages through applications looks like this
1. Install the app. Find the required software in the App Store or Google Play, click «Install» and wait for the app to download. 2. Allow the app to access your contacts. If you decline this request, you'll have to add contacts manually, and then you won't be able to call numbers without access automatically. 3. Confirm your account. Enter your phone number to confirm your account and register. If you give the app access to your contacts right away, you will receive an SMS with a code automatically.4. Set up your profile, enter your name, upload your avatar and come up with a secure pin code. All data will be completely secure. But for extra privacy, you can use an alias and do not upload an avatar. 5. Send an encrypted message. To send an encrypted text to another contact, tap the pencil or other icon that gives access to the user list and select the contact you need. You will then see a field for entering the message. A padlock icon on the send button will indicate that the message is encrypted automatically.
Do you want to communicate favorably on the Internet in any country of the world? Install the Yesim app. The technology is available in the most countries of the world. All you need to do is choose a tariff and install the application on your smartphone.
Before paying for the service, make sure your gadget supports eSIM technology on this service page.
Read also: What is eSIM: what is it for and how to use it
Applications and messengers to encrypt text messages
Let's look at the pros and cons of specific services that can be used to encrypt text messages.
Signal
The best app encrypt text messages on iPhone and Android. Supports iOS, Android, Windows 10, macOS, Linux.
Pros:
- End-to-end encryption by default, even for group calls;
- the source code is completely open;
- can be used simultaneously on up to five devices.
Cons:
- When registering, be sure to specify your phone number;
- your name and avatar will be seen by all contacts.
Only the user's phone number and latest connection date are stored in the app. All other information is automatically deleted. For this reason, Signal is often chosen by journalists and experts in various niches.
Wickr
An app designed to send temporary messages.
Supports iOS, Android, Windows 10, macOS, Linux.
Pros:
- all messages are automatically deleted;
- collects minimum information about users;
- You don't need a phone number or email to start.
Cons:
- Complex interface and menus, it takes time to get used to;
- the source code is open, but only partially.
The application is designed for individual users and the basic version is completely free. In addition, there is a Silver package for $4.99 with more features for teamwork. For larger companies, the developer recommends the Platinum package for $25/month.
Wire
A free and reliable application for encrypting text messages. To register you need to provide one of the contacts of your choice.
Supports iOS, Android, Windows 10, macOS, Linux.
Pros:
- To register, all you have to do is enter your email address or phone number of your choice;
- It is possible to synchronize the application between several devices.
Cons:
- There is no two-factor authentication;
- is more suitable for the B2B user segment.
Wire supports all browsers and platforms. The starter plan is completely free of charge. In addition, there is a Pro plan for businesses, with full administrative control, video and audio conferencing. The cost is $5.83/month.
Threema
A paid message encryption app that requires contacts to register.
OS support: iOS, Android, web browsers.
Pros:
- you don't need a SIM card;
- there is no need to register an account.
Cons:
- there is no trial period;
- there is no desktop version of the application.
Threema's servers are located in Switzerland and are protected by one of the world's best data privacy laws. The source code is open. The fee is symbolic, but mandatory — $2.99 to be able to enjoy all the benefits of the application.
Telegram
A well-known application with a well-developed function to protect messages.
Supports iOS, Android, Windows 10, macOS, Linux.
Pros:
- The application is designed to work with large groups of users;
- reliable integration with bots;
- additional encryption in private chats.
Cons:
- end-to-end encryption is not provided by default;
- collects quite a lot of information about users.
End-to-end encryption only works in secret chats. Here, you can also set the self-delete option for messages after a certain time interval. Access to secret chats is possible only from the main device.
The most famous encrypted messaging application.
Supports iOS, Android, Windows 10, macOS.
Pros:
- a billion active users every day;
- simple and user-friendly interface;
- Signal encryption protocol.
Cons:
- be sure to specify your phone number;
- takes up a lot of space in the gadget's memory.
The end-to-end encryption in this app works automatically, but does not process metadata. It's easy to check when you're online and how often you send messages. Not all users like the fact that this information is public.
Seamless mobile internet in 160+ countries –– at a cup of coffee price! Take away!Take away!Frequently Asked Questions on how to encrypt text messages
How do I send an encrypted SMS?
Install an app that encrypts messages before sending them via the mobile network or the Internet. Confirm your account, allow access to your contacts, and start exchanging encrypted SMS.
Can I encrypt my text messages with a VPN?
When you connect via VPN, your smartphone connects to the server via a virtual encryption tunnel and accesses the Internet via it. If you exchange messages with other contacts with VPN enabled, your text messages will be additionally protected.
Need inexpensive and fast Internet connection abroad? By installing the application Yesim you can use the Internet without unnecessary costs for SIM-cards of unknown providers and other difficulties that always arise with communication in travel.
