No matter if you are an Apple fan or not, you have definitely heard or read about the dispute between FBI and Apple. Moreover, this dispute has triggered a strong wave of discussions about encryption in general, specifically end-to-end encryption.
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So, even if you’re not a user of Apple’s products and don’t plan on becoming one, there’s a big chance that the dispute will affect you as a user, too. You’re definitely acquainted with the butterfly effect.
It’s already a fact that the instant messenger WhatsApp (acquired by Facebook in 2014) will encrypt all its users’ communication (end-to-end encryption). Even though their decision was announced about a year ago, the timing seems to be more than perfect. Why?
Thanks to the implementation of end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp won’t abide by court orders. No party demanding access to the contents of private messages and calls will be granted backdoor access.
What’s End-to-End Encryption?
End-to-end encryption, also known as E2EE, is a system of communication in which only the participants can read the messages. With end-to-end encryption eavesdropping is not possible, as access to the cryptographic keys needed for decryption is impossible. Who would want to get access to encrypted conversations? Well, many parties may be interested – from governments, through telecom and Internet providers, to the company running the service.
Why Is WhatsApp Adopting End-to-End Encryption?
In the company’s own words, protecting the privacy of their users is one of its “core beliefs”. That’s why WhatsApp will not only encrypt messages but also voice calls.
What does WhatsApp encryption exactly mean? If you use the latest version of the app, all of your communications with another person, including phone calls, videos, and photos that you send to each other, will be safely encrypted.
The rule applies to any phone running the latest version of the messenger, and is valid for iPhone, Windows, Android, and even Nokia phones. Moreover, not even WhatsApp employees will be able to decrypt and read the encrypted communications.
So, what do you think will be the next major service to embrace end-to-end encryption? Any suggestions?
Milena Dimitrova
An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim
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