I’m a security expert – my secret message rule can save you from iMessage and WhatsApp disaster

A security expert has shared a texting tip that could save you from accidentally revealing your most important secrets.

Not all encrypted messaging apps are created equal and how you use them has a big impact on the level of privacy you get.

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Security expert Stan Kaminsky recently explained this in the Kaspersky blog.

He referred to a report titled “What’s Safe?”. by experts from Tech Policy Press and Convocation Research and Design agencies.

This report found that Signal is by far the safest messaging app when compared to other popular apps.

The apps examined in the study were Signal, WhatsApp, iMessage, Telegram, Facebook Messenger and Google Messages.

Signal was the only app that offered encrypted chat backups by default.

WhatsApp and iMessage also offer this, but you need to make sure you sign up for it.

Users are advised to take several steps to make messaging apps more secure.

Try to use self-destructing messages when available and enable two-factor authentication.

It is also advisable to disable all additional features.

Kaminsky explained: “Additional functions such as stories, bots or links to social network services offer additional monitoring and data leak channels.”

“It’s best to turn off such features or avoid the app altogether.”

You should also keep in mind that a recipient can take screenshots of your SMS and you cannot control what they do with it.

Kaminsky’s secret message advice goes even further.

He warned, “The biggest secrets are best told in person.”

“No method of digital communication is completely secure.

“Therefore, the most risky information – especially if it poses a threat to health or even life – should be discussed in person, not in chat.”

So if you have a big secret, sending it via SMS might not be the best option.