Which is more private and secure, Threema or Signal?
Privacy in instant messaging apps is becoming increasingly important. And it’s no wonder, given the drawbacks of having your conversation data in the hands of cybercriminals, any option that enhances the security of the apps you use now is an improvement.
In this article, you will discover the most secure messaging app, Threema or Signal, which are two of the safest options when it comes to sharing your information. Find out which of the two options is the best for you, and understand all the differences with apps like WhatsApp, which we now use every day.
- What makes a messaging app secure?
When choosing a messaging app, security goes beyond just encrypting messages. Aspects like anonymity, metadata protection, and privacy policy are also very important.
Signal and Threema meet these criteria, but in different ways. While Signal is known for its strong encryption and open source, Threema stands out for its focus on complete anonymity. Let’s see how they work and what makes them different.
- Threema: Privacy without Identity
Threema is an encrypted messaging app developed in Switzerland with a strong focus on privacy. You don’t need a phone number or email to sign up, which means you can communicate anonymously. This anonymity is ideal for those who value keeping their personal data completely isolated from the web.
Another advantage of Threema is how it handles data: it doesn’t store messages on its servers. All messages and contacts are on your device, and the minimal metadata it needs to function is deleted once it’s done its job. As for security, Threema uses end-to-end encryption and undergoes third-party audits to ensure its code remains secure.
However, not everything is perfect. Threema is a paid app, and its popularity outside of Switzerland and Germany is not very high. This may limit the number of contacts you can communicate with through the app.
- Advantages:
- No phone number or email required.
- Handle metadata carefully and delete it after delivery.
- End-to-end encryption and security audits.
- Disadvantages:
- Payment required.
- Smaller user base outside the German-speaking world.
- Signal: Privacy and Simplicity
Signal is one of the most recommended messaging apps by security experts. Although it requires a phone number to sign up, Signal does not store any additional information about you or your contacts. Open source and ongoing security audits provide great confidence in the app’s security.
In Signal, all messages, calls, and files are end-to-end encrypted by default, and the app has many useful features, such as messages that disappear after a period of time. Additionally, there are no ads or activity tracking on Signal because it is a non-profit organization funded by donations. Signal is also free and very popular, making it easy to find contacts who are already using it.
- Advantages:
- Comprehensive and open source encryption.
- Non-profit, no ads or tracking.
- Widely popular and free.
- Disadvantages:
- Phone number required for registration.
- So which one should you choose?
The decision between Threema and Signal depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for complete anonymity and don’t mind paying a one-time price, Threema is the way to go, especially if you’d rather not have your identity tied at all. On the other hand, if you prefer a free, easy-to-access, and secure option, Signal might be the right choice for you, even if it requires your phone number. Both apps offer a high level of security and privacy, and each has its own strengths.
Whatever you choose, you'll be using a secure app to protect your conversations and maintain your privacy in an age where that's increasingly essential.