Best WhatsApp Alternatives for Privacy and Security in 2021

Are you considering ditching WhatsApp for a more private and secure messaging application? With the new privacy guidelines set to take effect by May 15, the search for a more reliable app has intensified over the last few weeks. Alternatives abound, but we will see the five best alternatives for the WhatsApp messaging App. 

Here are the 5 Best WhatsApp alternatives every privacy-conscious user should consider.

1. Signal

Undoubtedly, the Signal Messaging app has become a hot topic in the past weeks. This is after Elon Musk endorsed it as the most secure messaging app for privacy and security. True to his words, Signal does not collect user data or share information with third parties. It is one of the trendings WhatsApp alternatives in 2021. 

This messaging app is completely safe for texting, call and file sharing. It has end-to-end encryption for all user activity on the app and is an open-source application. On Signal, you can enjoy one-on-one private messaging, group messaging, a privacy lock option to secure the app and a disappearing message option for chats. 

2. Viber

Viber allows users to make calls, send messages and share files in an end-to-end encrypted environment. You can make video calls with up to 20 participants without affecting the quality, and the groups can support as many as 250 participants.

A unique feature of Viber is the ability to make international calls to non-Viber users at very low rates. It also comes with a community feature that allows you to socialize and comment on posts.

3. Telegram

Telegram is cloud-based, meaning it can be synced across multiple devices. It offers two security layers, including end-to-end encryption for all media, messages or calls on the platform. The UI is easy to use, and you can share media of up to 2GB in one go.

The icing on the cake is the client-to-client encryption for secret chats where the chats are not saved on the telegram servers. Once you delete the messages from your device, they are gone forever. You can also set a timer for messages to disappear from the sender and recipient’s UI. Telegram as one of the WhatsApp alternatives has been getting a high influx of new users to its platform. 

4. Threema

Threema is an app that encrypts all the user data present on the app, including status updates, files and texts. It does not use a user's mobile number or email address to create an account, making it the best application for anonymity. It does not log metadata or IP addresses, ensuring your activity cannot be tracked.

5. Wickr Me

Wickr Me used AES 256, ECDH521, and RSA 4096, with Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS) algorithms for its end-to-end encryption. You can set an anonymous account on the app, set messages to disappear, and even set files to disappear after a preset time. Wickr is a privacy-savvy app that does not log user IP addresses of activity.

• Verdict: If you are still concerned about your security, you can further enhance your privacy by using a VPN app and limiting the amount of information you share online. These two security measures ensure safe browsing and reduce the chances of data loss. Download and enjoy WhatsApp alternatives to see which works best for you. 

This is a guest post from Chris Jones from TurnOnVPN.