end-to-end encryption Archives

AppWizard

August 18, 2025

Russian Regulators Restrict WhatsApp, Telegram In Latest Internet Crackdown

Russian regulators, through Roskomnadzor, are implementing partial restrictions on phone calls made via WhatsApp and Telegram, citing their use in fraudulent activities. This action is part of a strategy to promote a government-managed "super app" called Max, developed by VK, which aims to consolidate various services into one platform. The initiative aims to enhance oversight over communications and information access for Russian citizens. WhatsApp has acknowledged the restrictions while emphasizing the importance of maintaining end-to-end encryption. Activist Mikhail Klimarev has warned that severe restrictions could negatively impact the economy and public perception.

AppWizard

August 14, 2025

Russia curbs WhatsApp, Telegram calls to ‘combat criminals’

Russia's communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, announced restrictions on calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram to combat criminal activities. The agency claims these messaging apps have become primary channels for fraud, extortion, and recruitment for subversive actions. Russian security services allege that Ukraine uses Telegram for recruitment and sabotage. The government seeks greater control over user data for investigations into fraud and terrorism. Restrictions will be lifted once the platforms comply with local legislation. Telegram stated it actively prevents misuse of its platform, while WhatsApp expressed concerns over the implications of these restrictions on user privacy and security.

AppWizard

August 9, 2025

Decentralizing Trust — An Interview with the Team Behind Session Messenger

Session is a decentralized messaging platform that prioritizes user anonymity and metadata resistance. It operates on a network of community-operated servers, eliminating central authority and personal identifiers such as phone numbers or emails for account creation. This design minimizes risks of data breaches and unauthorized tracking. Session does not collect user metadata, which distinguishes it from other messaging apps that may expose user insights through metadata. Users are assigned randomly generated cryptographic keys instead of traditional identifiers, ensuring secure messaging. Messages are routed via a protocol called Onion Requests, which strips metadata during transmission. The platform is open-source, benefiting from community contributions, and aims to enhance user privacy by employing anonymous routing. Recent developments include a migration to the Session Network for improved accessibility and security, and a move to Switzerland for better data protection. Session is introducing a Pro tier to enhance user experience while maintaining free access for all. The platform emphasizes the importance of transparency and robust design in communication tools.

Tech Optimizer

August 1, 2025

Yes, You Can Bundle Other Cybersecurity Services With Some VPNs. But Is It a Good Idea

Relying solely on a VPN and personal vigilance may leave individuals exposed to online threats such as phishing, malware, identity theft, and ransomware. A VPN enhances online privacy by encrypting internet traffic and concealing the user's IP address, but it is only one part of a broader security strategy. Additional tools like password managers, antivirus software, encrypted cloud storage, secure email, and identity protection services are recommended for optimal protection. Many VPN providers now offer bundled services, which can include these additional tools, making it easier for users to manage their online security. Bundling services can provide convenience, easy access to various tools, and potential cost savings. However, there are also reasons to consider an á la carte approach, such as the possibility of lower costs with individual subscriptions, concerns about trusting a single provider with all services, and the need for specific services that may not be included in a VPN bundle.

AppWizard

July 31, 2025

What You Should Know About Jack Dorsey’s New Messaging App Bitchat

Jack Dorsey launched an open-source messaging app called Bitchat Mesh, or Bitchat, on July 28 through Apple's App Store. The app utilizes Bluetooth for data transmission instead of traditional internet connections and does not use contacts or phone numbers for connectivity, instead forming a Bluetooth mesh network among nearby devices. Each device acts as both a client and server, allowing for communication within the network, which is limited to those in proximity. Users can see the number of connected devices and send private messages, while main chat messages are visible to all within the network. Bitchat includes features like blocking users and sending playful notifications. Despite being open-source, the app has not undergone a third-party security audit, and users have been cautioned about potential vulnerabilities. Dorsey implemented the Noise Protocol Framework for end-to-end encryption but advised against using the app for production purposes until it receives an external security review.

AppWizard

July 22, 2025

What is MAX, the state-owned app Russia’s Vladimir Putin is trying to replace WhatsApp with?

Russia has mandated that all government officials transition to the Max app by September 1 as part of a strategy to reduce reliance on foreign messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. The ban on WhatsApp is anticipated as officials prepare for the rollout of the state-developed Max app by VK Company, which has extensive access to users' personal data and operates under close government oversight. The legislation also prohibits apps from countries that have sanctioned Russia, indicating an effort to bolster national security in digital communications. Additionally, restrictions on software and services from "unfriendly countries" are being proposed, along with fines for accessing online content deemed extremist.

AppWizard

July 18, 2025

Crypto Messaging App Ephemera Bags $20M Series B at $300M Valuation

Ephemera, a blockchain-based messaging platform, secured million in a Series B funding round, co-led by Union Square Ventures, A16z Crypto, and Lightspeed Faction, achieving a valuation of 0 million. The round included participation from Coinbase, Sound Ventures, and actor Ashton Kutcher. The funding was structured as equity with token warrants, and Fred Wilson from Union Square Ventures joined Ephemera’s board. The platform is developed by the creators of XMTP, a decentralized messaging network utilizing IETF-standard Messaging Layer Security, which is trusted by companies like Mozilla, Google, Wire, and Cisco. XMTP aims to allow users to transfer conversations between different messaging apps, addressing concerns about centralization and user ownership of messages.

AppWizard

July 17, 2025

Beeper Just Got Smarter with On-Device Messaging and a New Plus Plan

Beeper is a multi-service messaging application that supports various platforms including WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, Discord, LinkedIn, Matrix, Slack, Google Chat, X, Telegram, Signal, and Google Messages. The app has introduced on-device messaging, allowing users to connect directly to these services, enhancing speed and security with end-to-end encryption for compatible networks. A new premium tier, Beeper Plus, is available for .99 per month, allowing users to connect up to 10 accounts and offering features such as message scheduling, chat reminders, incognito mode, and AI-powered voice note transcription. The app remains available for free but with limited functionality.

AppWizard

July 17, 2025

Beeper Updated With On-Device Accounts, Support for End-to-End Encryption

Beeper has merged with Texts.com under Automattic and now allows users to access chats from multiple services like WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and Google Chat. The platform is shifting to support on-device accounts for enhanced privacy and will eventually discontinue support for Beeper Cloud accounts. On-device accounts provide end-to-end encryption without storing personal information on cloud servers. Users can set up on-device accounts for platforms including WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, Google Chat, Messenger, Signal, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter), with support for Discord and Slack coming soon. Beeper has a subscription model with the Beeper Plus plan at .99 per month, offering features like support for multiple accounts, message scheduling, and voice message transcription. There is also a "Beeper Plus Plus" plan for .99 per month, providing unlimited account support. Existing users can access 12 accounts for free, and early backers receive free permanent access to Beeper Plus features.

AppWizard

July 17, 2025

Beeper’s all-in-one messenger updated with better encryption and paid perks

Beeper is enhancing user experience and security by rolling out new security features to improve chat encryption. The platform is transitioning from using Beeper Cloud for message relaying to direct connections with individual messaging applications, enabling end-to-end encryption across supported platforms. Previously, Beeper provided encryption for select services with a two-step process, but the update allows for more efficient delivery directly to app servers. Beeper is introducing a premium subscription model, Beeper Plus, at .99 per month, which includes features like support for up to three accounts from the same app, message scheduling, incognito mode, voice note transcriptions, custom app icons, and the ability to add up to ten accounts. A second tier, Beeper Plus Plus, is available for .99 per month, removing all account limits. Existing free tier users can now add up to 12 accounts at no extra cost, and early adopters of Beeper will receive lifetime free access to Beeper Plus. However, Beeper does not support iMessage due to unsuccessful integration attempts, and it has open-sourced its iMessage bridge in December 2023 following its acquisition by Automattic.