Which apps use end-to-end encryption?

Lots of apps promise “secure” or “encrypted” communication, but that doesn’t always mean the same thing. The gold standard is end-to-end encryption (E2EE), which means only you and the person you’re talking to can read or hear what’s sent. Not even the app company can access your chat.

If you want true E2EE look to these popular apps:

  • WhatsApp: Uses end-to-end encryption by default for messages, voice calls, video calls, photos, and videos between users
  • Signal: Fully end-to-end encrypted and open source, considered one of the strongest secure messaging apps
  • iMessage: End-to-end encrypted between Apple devices, with some caveats around how keys and backups are handled
  • Telegram: Only “Secret Chats” are end-to-end encrypted; standard cloud chats are not E2EE by default
  • Meta Messenger/Instagram: Rolling out or enabling end-to-end encrypted chats and calls, often as an option in settings
  • MySudo: Uses end-to-end encryption on all calls, messages, and emails between app users.

If you want truly private messaging, look specifically for “end-to-end encryption by default” and understand whether any “secret” or “private” modes need to be switched on manually.

End-to-end encrypted voice and video calls

Many apps now offer end-to-end encrypted voice calls for one-to-one conversations, and end-to-end encrypted video calls, sometimes for 1:1 calls and sometimes for groups, depending on the service.

If you’re using video calls or VoIP for confidential discussions (for example, medical consultations, legal calls, or sensitive work meetings), make sure the service clearly states that calls are end-to-end encrypted and check whether you need to enable it in settings.

Encrypted cloud storage services

Some cloud storage services and password managers advertise end-to-end encrypted cloud storage, zero-knowledge file storage, and client-side encrypted file sync.

The idea is similar: your files are encrypted on your device and stored in a way that the provider cannot decrypt. But many big-name cloud services encrypt data in transit and at rest, but still hold the keys and can, in theory, access your data.

If maximum privacy is important, look for services that clearly explain that only you control the decryption keys, and that they cannot read your stored content.

Apps with encrypted backup (chats and files)

A common weak spot is backups: your chats may be end-to-end encrypted in the app, but the backup stored in the cloud (phone backup or chat backup) may not be fully E2EE.

To stay secure:

  • Check whether “end-to-end encrypted backups” are available and turn them on.
  • Consider disabling non-encrypted cloud backups if they expose sensitive conversations or documents.

How to tell if an app uses end-to-end encryption

Check app privacy settings and documentation

To see whether an app is truly end-to-end encrypted:

  • Look for end-to-end encryption mentioned in the app’s security or privacy page.
  • Check if there are in-chat notices like “Messages are secured with end-to-end encryption.”
  • Explore settings for options like security, privacy, or encryption.

Services that genuinely provide E2EE generally highlight it clearly because it’s a competitive advantage.

Look for E2EE indicators and badges

Some apps display:

  • Lock icons or shields in conversations
  • Verification badges or status indicators
  • In-app notifications confirming encryption status.

These visual cues help you quickly confirm that your communications are protected.

Red flags: when apps claim encryption but don't use E2EE

Verifying security codes and safety numbers

Some apps, like Signal and WhatsApp, offer:

  • Security codes or safety numbers for each contact
  • The option to scan a QR code or compare a numeric code in person or through another trusted channel.

This lets you confirm there is no “man in the middle” intercepting messages by pretending to be your contact. For highly sensitive conversations, it’s worth taking this extra step.

Sub Topics

End-To-End Encryption Apps