Security Solutions
What makes our smartphones so secure? Explore GrapheneOS's eight pillars of security.
Our experts agree
Our experts agree that protecting sensitive communications goes far beyond device-level security. While apps like WhatsApp from Meta may be easy to use, they put your privacy at risk by collecting and sharing your personal metadata such as who you talk to, when, and how often.
Recent updates show that WhatsApp is now starting to display ads in the "Updates" tab. These ads are personalized based on your location, language, and how you use the app. Even though your message content stays encrypted, Meta still uses your behavioral data extensively and may link it with your other profiles through its Account Center.
In short: Meta uses WhatsApp not just for messaging but as a data source.
For true digital privacy, it's important to choose tools that respect your data from the ground up.
Threema: Privacy by Design
In clear contrast, Threema offers a well-designed privacy concept:
Threema was built from the ground up with data security and user privacy in mind. Unlike many other messengers, Threema does not require a phone number or email address to get started. Each user receives a randomly generated Threema ID, allowing for true anonymity without sharing personal information.
Threema also follows a strict "privacy by design" approach. Messages are deleted immediately after delivery, and contact lists or group information are never permanently stored on servers. If contact sync is enabled, it is done locally and securely, without exposing data to the cloud.
When it comes to encryption, Threema is equally consistent. Not only are messages encrypted, but also profile pictures, group memberships, and status messages. All security implementations have been independently audited by well-known cybersecurity firms such as Cure53.
Another major advantage: Threema is based in Switzerland. This means it operates under strict Swiss data protection laws, uses ISO 27001-certified data centers, and is not subject to the US CLOUD Act, shielding users from foreign data access. Regular transparency reports further demonstrate Threema's commitment to protecting user privacy.
SimpleX Chat: The Next Level of Privacy
While Threema already offers a strong privacy concept, SimpleX Chat goes one decisive step further and sets completely new standards for anonymity. It is the first messenger that works completely without any user IDs, not even randomly generated ones like Threema.
SimpleX Chat was built from the ground up as "Privacy by Design". You don't need a phone number, email address, username, or any kind of ID. Connections are made exclusively through one-time invitation links or QR codes. As a result, there is no central database that could link contacts, groups, or your profile to you. Nobody, not even the server operators, can see who you are communicating with. To the servers, all messages look like pure random noise.
The concept is radically decentralized: Every user essentially runs their own network. Contacts, groups, and channels exist only locally on your device and are never permanently stored on servers. You can even run your own messaging servers or freely choose which ones to use. There is no central authority controlling the network.
When it comes to encryption, SimpleX also operates at the highest level: Quantum-resistant end-to-end encryption (based on the Double Ratchet algorithm with additional layers) protects not only messages but also files, voice messages, and video calls. The protocol has been independently audited multiple times. Additional features such as Incognito Mode (a new random profile name for each contact), disappearing messages, and local database encryption with a passphrase complete the picture.
Explore insights, innovations, and the future of online privacy
GrapheneOS Compared to Other Operating Systems
https://sebastiangogola.me/grapheneos-the-ultimate-secure-mobile-operating-system/
Why We Should Turn Our Backs on WhatsApp
https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/vpns/whatsapp-introduces-ads-and-we-need-to-re-evaluate-its-privacy-credentials
What Telegram CEO Pavel Durov thinks about our future privacy
https://cybernews.com/privacy/telegram-ceo--privacy-dystopian-world-approaching-fast/