WhatsApp Rolling Out End-to-End Encryption

Some Android WhatsApp users already have access to encrypted texts, but more platforms will be supported soon.

WhatsApp is boosting security with end-to-end encryption.

The popular messaging app teamed up with Open Whisper Systems to implement its TextSecure protocol. Some Android WhatsApp users may already be sending encrypted texts; the most recent update for the Google mobile platform includes support for TextSecure. Group chat and media messages are not yet covered, but are next on the list.

The companies are also working on support for more clients, including Apple's iOS. Users can expect a slow deployment, however, as WhatsApp runs on "an incredible number of mobile platforms," Open Whisper Systems said in a blog post.

"We have a ways to go until all mobile platforms are fully supported, but we are moving quickly toward a world where all WhatsApp users will get end-to-end encryption by default," the firm said.

WhatsApp could use the security boost; the messaging service took a hit earlier this month, when the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) reported that only six mobile applications passed its security test, and WhatsApp was not one of them.

In fact, of the seven features EFF said an app needs to be truly secure, WhatsApp only had two: encryption in transit and a recent code audit.

"WhatsApp deserves enormous praise for devoting considerable time and effort to this project," Open Whisper Systems said. "Even though we're still at the beginning of the rollout, we believe this already represents the largest deployment of end-to-end encrypted communication in history."

WhatsApp declined to comment further.

Meanwhile, if you just can't wait for the updated security, try one of EFF's top-rated apps: ChatSecure + Orbot, Cryptocat, RedPhone, Silent Phone, Silent Text, or TextSecure.

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WhatsApp Rolling Out End-to-End Encryption