The Threema vs Signal debate has recently gained popularity as more and more people look for an application where they can chat securely.
These two apps are popularly known for their strong security measures and respect for people’s privacy. However, they are different in many ways.
In this article, we will compare Threema and Signal. And help you find out which of the two applications is better for you.
What is Threema?
Threema is a messaging application meant to be as secure and private as possible with a large focus on anonymity. It is quite unique from most messaging apps. No user detail like the phone number or email address has to be provided when registering on the app.
Instead, every user is provided with a Threema ID, enabling the service to be fully anonymous.
Key features of Threema
In the Threema vs Signal scramble for security supremacy, several factors have helped Threema become a secure fortress of the digital communication process.
1. End-to-end encryption
Threema uses cutting-edge end-to-end encryption. This is where messages, voice calls, files and group chats are encrypted from the sender to the receiver. This means that even if information is intercepted during transmission, nobody will be able to decipher it apart from the recipient.
2. Anonymous registration
Users can easily register an account on this platform without being required to input any of their identification information. Instead, the application comes up with a random number, the Threema ID, which will not be associated with the user’s identity in any way.
3. Swiss legal protection
Threema was developed in Switzerland, a country that offers the best legal protection to the users’ data. Switzerland’s data protection policies are among the most advanced on the globe. They provide excellent protection from data being accessed by unauthorized persons.
4. Decentralized infrastructure
Threema reduces risks connected with the storing of data in a centralized manner through the decentralized architecture. All communication happens over the distributed networks, thereby making the possibility of an attack of the total system exponentially harder.
5. File transfer and group chats
All types of files, such as Word documents, images, videos, etc., can be safely transferred from one user to another using end-to-end encryption. Administrators of group chats also retain supreme authority over the permissions of the members. Thus improving the security of the entire conversation.
Privacy, kids’ safety, and peace of mind start here with parental monitoring.
What is Signal?
With regard to Signal, it is a safe messaging program created for the purpose of anonymity with the help of end-to-end encryption.
Signal was developed by the Signal Foundation. And is widely used by those who consider the protection of their communication important. The fact that it is open-source also means that the community can perform transparency and security audits. Adding to the app’s established security credentials.
Key features of Signal
Signal comes out strongly as a platform of privacy-centered communication geared towards keeping user information safe from prying eyes.
1. End-to-end encryption
Signal relies on a protocol that is acknowledged to be one of the most secure protocols in the world of cryptography. This makes the conversations, as well as file sharing, completely encrypted from the sender right up to the receiver.
2. Open-source software
Ensuring openness is among the most important principles that are implemented in Signal. All the codes of the application are open for public access. This means that anybody can look at the source code. And take a look at the measures that have been put in place to secure the app.
3. Self-destruct messages
Signal includes a robust automatic deletion for its messages. Users can set time periods within which their messages should be wiped out. This is useful for chats that require secure messaging as it reduces the probability of an unauthorized person getting access to them.
4. Ad-free and no tracking
Signal also does not allow tracking of any form. The app does not show ads and denies the collection or sale of user data. This commitment means that Signal does not retain your information. And it does not track your calls, messages or any communication for data mining.
5. Cross-platform support
Signal also ensures strong cross-platform support with smooth integration for users on Android, iOS, and desktop. Such extensive support guarantees that the users are capable of establishing secure connections regardless of the devices used. Threema is also available on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and desktop operating systems such as Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Threema vs. Signal: What are the differences
In a Threema vs. Signal comparison, there are a few noticeable differences that can greatly affect the choice of users.
Privacy protection and security
Signal uses a more complex version of encryption known as the Signal protocol which offers everything from perfect forward secrecy to post-compromise security.
In contrast, while Threema also boasted strong encryption measures, its design could be exploited to decrypt past messages if the key is stolen.
User interface and experience
Signal has a clean and simple design that works very well and can be easily understood by the user regardless of their literacy.
With Threema, it also offers some customizations, but the application interface is somewhat messy, especially within group conversations.
App costs and subscription
Threema is an app that runs on a one-time payment system. The user pays for the initial cost of the application which goes for about €3-5.
On the other hand, Signal is available without any charges. It is financed by the nonprofit organization behind the application.
Message and call features
When it comes to text, voice, and video communication, Threema and Signal have very similar capabilities – but Signal is slightly more advanced.
Signal supports group video calls which involve up to 50 people. However, Threema has only recently added video calls, and it does support very few people for group video calls.
File transfer and attachment size
Signal generally permits large file transmissions while supporting more file formats. Threema is more conservative with file size, offering faster transfer options but with less allowance for really large files.
User base and popularity
Signal has become very popular among users since it is free to download, and has an additional benefit of high security.
With Threema, it is not nearly as popular. But it has features, including anonymity and the protection of Swiss laws, that attract certain customers.
Message auto destruction
Signal has a customization option where the message can be set to self-destruct after a given time.
Threema also has an option for self-destructing messages, but customers have to go through the settings to turn this option on.
Threema vs. Signal: Which one is right for you?
The following table compares these two apps to help you decide which secure messaging app is the best fit for you.
| Criteria | Threema | Signal |
| Cost | Paid (One-time purchase) | Free |
| Registration | Anonymous ID, no phone number required | Phone number required |
| Legal Protection | Swiss data protection laws | US-based, supported by non-profit foundation |
| Open-Source | Partially open-source | Fully open-source |
| User Interface | Traditional, security-focused design | Modern, intuitive design |
| Group Chat | Up to 256 participants | Up to 1000 participants |
| Cross-Platform | Android, iOS, Desktop | Android, iOS, Desktop |
| User Base | Smaller, niche market | Larger, growing global community |
Both platforms provide high-level security. However, they are tailored to meet different users’ requirements.
Are Threema and Signal kid-friendly?
Threema app has been developed to offer users high levels of privacy. Users are not forced to provide details like phone numbers to be able to use the app. Nevertheless, it has no parental controls. This is a problem for parents who would wish to supervise their children’s communications.
Signal, on the other hand, is also highly secured and places much value on the privacy of users using end-to-end encryption. Unfortunately, it also does not come with any amenities that a parent would use to monitor his/her child’s usage.
Even though Threema and Signal offer high-level privacy features, these features may become a problem for parental monitoring. So your kids could interact with strangers online without your knowledge, exposing them to potential cyberbullying.
Should parents be concerned about kids’ communication safety?
Parents should be worried about the various hazards that can befall children while using communication tools. These include the following.
- Exposure to strangers. When using Threema and Signal, one can chat with any contacts without confirming their identities. This means that people can interact with strangers.
- Inappropriate content. Unfortunately, none of the apps have incorporated built-in content filters. Children may, therefore, come across content that is unsuitable shared by other users of the app.
- Privacy risks. The anonymity offered by such applications is a boon as well as a bane. As much as it preserves user data, it also enables children to conceal their activities from parents or caregivers.
- Cyberbullying and online predators. When left to their own devices, children become prone to cyberbullying or get into situations that attract people with malicious intent.
Though both apps provide a safe space for messaging, parental control features are not included. Therefore, parents need to monitor their children’s use of the apps actively.
Other messaging tools like Threema and Signal
Besides Threema and Signal, there are several other tools that focus on security and privacy. Here are some of them.
- Telegram – Telegram is an instant messaging app that enjoys great popularity with consumers because of its speed and flexibility.
- WhatsApp – WhatsApp is one of the most used instant messaging apps. It enables text, voice messages, video calls, and the sharing of images and documents.
- Wire – Wire is a secure messaging application that includes messaging, voice and video connectivity, and file transfer.
- Wickr Me – It is mainly designed for safe communication with functions such as auto-deleting chats, as well as encrypted file transfer.
Most of these alternatives offer diverse security functions to make communication secure for the user.
Bonus: Effective ways to ensure kids use messaging apps safely
Here are some useful tips to increase the safety of your kids while they are using messaging apps.
↪ Open communication
Engage in regular discussions with the child regarding safety on the internet. Also, clarify to your child that they should feel comfortable talking to you when they feel uncomfortable about anything on their messaging apps.
↪ Monitor online activity
Monitor your child’s online activity, including messages sent and received, the posts on social networks, and the history of websites visited. Keep an eye on any changes that may make you think that they are victims of cyberbullying or other issues related to the internet.
↪ Take advantage of parental controls
Parental control applications such as FlashGet Kids enable parents to monitor their children’s phones， including their calls, messages, app uses, and more. With the reliable and powerful tools FlashGet Kids offers, you can monitor who your kid is interacting with, limit access to certain apps or features, and regulate his/her daily device usage with detailed reposts. This is an essential mobile app for managing and safeguarding your child’s online experience.
Wrap up
The Threema vs Signal debate clearly shows that the question of privacy in the digital age is of paramount relevance. Though both of them share strong encryption and privacy options, the best one depends on your requirements. Either Threema’s Swiss-based anonymity or Signal’s open-source texture.
But with constantly emerging digital threats, programs such as FlashGet Kids help to protect young users. Filling the gap between advanced encryption and steady online security.
FAQs
Yes, indeed, Threema provides the opportunity for its users to chat entirely anonymously. It doesn’t involve a phone number or email address to sign up for an account. Instead, users are provided with a unique Threema ID. Meaning that a user’s data will remain confidential.
Threema and Signal apps come with great security measures, but they are implemented in different ways. While Threema offers the highest level of anonymity and functions according to Swiss legislation, Signal implements a set of elaborate encryption protection standards. In the end, it all comes down to whether the user needs a program more focused on anonymity or open-source honesty.
