Tap-proof messenger for secure chats
Only a few messengers support tap-proof chatting by default. Fortunately, for some well-known chat clients there are plug-ins that encrypt your messages. Our practical tip shows you which programs you can use to chat safely and also protect your privacy online.
Tap-proof chatting with the Messenger BitTorrent Bleep
- Like downloads in the BitTorrent network, BitTorrent Bleep sends all messages using peer-2-peer technology. All data is communicated directly between the two users, no servers can save or view the data on the way.
- If you want to chat completely anonymously, you have come to the right place. BitTorrent Bleep does not require a user account. However, if you want to stay in touch with your friends, it is worth creating a fixed account.
- BitTorrent Bleep is available as a Windows version as well as for iOS and Android. You can find more information on the security and anonymity of Bleep in this overview.
Tap-proof chat clients for Windows, Linux and Mac
Secure chat programs encrypt your messages before they are sent to your conversation partner. If you use popular chat applications such as "Facebook Messenger" or "Hangouts" from Google, this is not the case. Our three alternatives are much safer and protect your conversations from unwanted glimpses:
- The design of "Jitsi" is reminiscent of "Windows Live Messenger" or "Skype". The range of functions from simple text chat to video telephony is similar. Even Facebook and Google accounts can be used thanks to XMPP support.
- The "Cryptocat" integrates directly into your browser. Create your own chat rooms or join existing rooms. The messages that are sent are encrypted before they reach the server.
- Chat completely anonymously with "TorChat". Based on the Tor principle, you can chat completely undetected. It is almost impossible to identify you or intercept your conversations.
Make Pidgin, AIM and Miranda bug-proof using a plug-in
- You can upgrade the popular chat clients Pidgin, AIM and Miranda via plug-in. All your messages are encrypted.
- Just install "OTR" for Pidgin or visit the developer page for more versions.
iOS and Android: tap-proof chats on the smartphone
You don't have to do without secure chat when you're on the move. The two apps Signal and Threema are particularly safe.
- Both use end-to-end encryption, which is very secure by today's standards. This means that even the developers of the apps cannot access user data.
- Signal is completely free and not only encrypts your messages, but also makes your phone calls tap-proof. Threema currently costs between 1.79 and 1.99 euros and only encrypts messages.
- Signal is not yet widespread in Germany and Threema is unfortunately subject to a fee. The Messenger Telegram also makes your messages tap-proof, is relatively widespread and also free of charge. However, you have to activate the encrypted chat in Telegram manually once.
Hoccer: The safest messenger for your smartphone
- According to Stiftung Warentest, there is a new messenger that is the safest in 2015. Hoccer for iOS and Hoccer for Android protect your data with end-to-end encryption.
- Since Hoccer's servers are located in Germany, the comparatively strict Federal Data Protection Act is also applied here. Potential access by NSA and Co. is not impossible, but it is significantly more difficult.
- Messenger does not require any personal data to register. Neither the email address nor the cell phone number are mandatory. In addition, the app is completely free.
- Further information on Hoccer and the safe WhatsApp alternatives can be found in the Security Check 2015 from Stiftung Warentest.
In the next practical tip, we will show you the 7 best tips for secure online banking.