WhatsApp was put under the limelight as it requires users to approve data-sharing with Facebook under the latest update. The privacy update was currently delayed due to backlash from its users worldwide. In Malaysia, up to 91% of internet users are using WhatsApp. What alternatives do we have to protect our data privacy?
1) Telegram
Telegram has end-to-end encrypted chats but default chats are stored on Telegram’s servers. Under the Secret Mode, you can have device-to-device encrypted chats where messages will only be stored on your phone. What’s more, once a person deletes a message, the message will be deleted from both phones.
- Pros -
a) Allows a group of up to 200,000 users and share files up to 2GB… all for free!
b) You can also add integrate it with other services such as chatbots for automated message replies.
- Cons -
No video chat function
2) Signal
Signal is an end-to-end encrypted app that promises to encrypt all your messages so that it can’t even be viewed by Signal. It is an open-sourced app, which meant that all its code is available online for public scrutiny. Signal provides a similar user experience to WhatsApp so that you wouldn’t be worried about adapting to its system. It allows sending messages, creates groups, makes group calls and video calls for up to eight participants, and even stickers!
- Pros -
a) Minimal information was required, just need to sign up using your phone number.
b) Offers voice and video calls
- Cons -
Smaller user base as compared to the others
Still wary about your data? Fret not! We have one more solution for you...
3) Discord
Discord is a server-based messaging app with a private messaging feature like Whatsapp. As it started off as a game chat platform, you can use it to add your friends using gamer tags. The group chat currently allows up to 10 friends with group chats and calls functions.
- Pros -
a) Privacy prevails as you wouldn’t need to use your phone number or even real name to use Discord.
b) Able to stream Desktop content in real-time
- Cons -
Less emojis and themes
So, that's all for the moment, which would you choose? Discuss with your friends and try out the alternatives to keep your data privacy intact!
