In a significant move towards enhancing user privacy, Meta has introduced end-to-end encryption as the default setting in its instant messaging service, Messenger, this initiative is designed to ensure the confidentiality and security of user communications, making it impossible for any third party to access the contents of these messages or calls, as reported by the company.
The Evolution of Encryption: From Optional to Default
Previously, the end-to-end encryption feature was available as an optional choice in the Messenger app, however, it has now become the standard for all users, Loredana Crisan, the head of the Messenger platform, emphasized the team’s commitment, which includes engineers, encryption experts, designers, and specialists in policy and product management, who have diligently worked to redevelop and enhance Messenger from the ground up.
Impact on Other Features
According to Meta, this update will not affect the variety of other features available in Messenger, however, transitioning all conversations to the new encryption system may take some time. It is noted that group conversations in Messenger still use encryption as an optional feature, and Instagram messages are yet without default encryption, on the other hand, WhatsApp, also owned by Meta, has featured end-to-end encryption as a core attribute for years.
The Future of Messenger and Upcoming Changes
Meta has also announced future plans to separate Messenger conversations from Instagram, end support for SMS in the Android system, and shut down the widely used Messenger Lite app, these developments underscore the company’s commitment to enhancing user experience and protecting privacy.
