WhatsApp stands as one of the most widely used messaging apps with over 2 billion users globally. However, numerous users have privacy concerns, particularly with the fact that WhatsApp collects user information and shares it with Meta, their parent company. Moreover, some users become annoyed with some of its limited functionalities, like the absence of advanced security controls or the inability to customise the application. But just stay calm! there are many Whatsapp alternatives available. So, let’s delve deeper to learn about the best messaging apps that not only secure your conversations but are full of new features.
Why do you search for WhatsApp alternatives?
WhatsApp is one of the leading messaging apps in the world, however, it does have its fair share of problems. So, let’s discuss these problems which propel you to look for WhatsApp alternatives means to communicate.
Privacy Issues
One of the major issues with WhatsApp is privacy concerns. This is because it keeps track of your conversations, location, contacts, and even the metadata contained in the details of your messages (like time and date). However, it doesn’t stop here, as it shares all of this information with its parent company Meta thus proving an invasion of your privacy.
Limitations to features offered
Although the bulk of users have access to a range of robust features on WhatsApp, it falls short when it comes to file sharing. While other apps like Telegram allow 4GB of file sharing, WhatsApp only allows 2 GB. Moreover, WhatsApp groups have a limit of 1,024 members, other applications offer far greater flexibility. You can also create supergroups and channels for public announcements on Telegram which allows up to 200,000 members per supergroup.
Blocked in some countries
Moreover, you know WhatsApp is usually banned in North Korea and China, and its use is restricted in Syria, Iran, and the UAE, all for differing reasons:
- China: The government controls information by banning WhatsApp and pushing the use of WeChat.
- North Korea: Similarly, North Korea has put these restrictions to limit outside communications.
- UAE & Qatar: Moreover, In these countries, WhatsApp’s voice and video calls are usually prohibited as they are in competition with local telecom services.
- Iran & Syria: The restriction of Whatsapp in these two countries is to limit communication that could incite protesting.
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Criteria for choosing alternatives to WhatsApp
If considering a switch from WhatsApp, the careful choice of the new messaging app is crucial to ensure a smooth changeover. Here are the most important points to consider when picking WhatsApp alternatives:
Security and privacy:
Privacy is one of the crucial aspects when looking into a messaging app. Thus, check if the app has end-to-end encryptions to ensure no third parties can access the messages aside from you and your partner. However, encryption is not the final step, it is also vital to look if the app gathers metadata which consists of contact lists, patterns of usage and devices. Some apps have data retention policies, while some keep to a strict no-logs policy. So, check what the privacy policy and terms of data sharing are before making a decision.
User interface and experience
An ideal messaging app is simple and requires no learning to operate. Communication should be exciting, not tedious and masked by complex menus and cluttered designs. Look for an app that displays an organized clean layout, easy navigation and responsive interface. In case you are someone who often switches devices, make sure the app works flawlessly on different operating systems.
Features and customization
Besides sending and receiving messages, pay attention to other features that may improve your experience. You might enjoy functionalities, such as voice and video calls, large file sharing, encrypted media, disappearing messages, and even file encryption. Moreover, customization features like notification settings, user themes, and stickers add fun to the app as well. Some platforms go further to support entertainment and productivity with automation tools and bots.
Compatibility and Integrations
Moreover, your preferred app should have no restrictions across all operating systems and devices. If you own a smartphone and computer, cross-device syncing should be available. Also, check whether the app can integrate with other apps such as professional communication tools or gaming communities. Some apps may restrict their functionality based on their used device, so make sure it meets all your needs before making the switch.
Group chats and communities
In case you mostly have to participate in group conversations, seek an application that specializes in group chats. So, pay special attention to the size limit of the group, control for admins, and moderation tools. While some tools offer a few hundred participants, others offer community spaces that allow thousands of members. Moreover, advanced options such as role-defined access control, polls, and threaded replies enable efficient group interaction and collaboration.
Thus, taking all these factors into account, you will be able to select a messaging application that offers the proper level of security and ease of use, along with a preferred style of communication.
5 best free WhatsApp alternatives
So, when looking for secure messaging apps, you have ample choices to pick from. In this section, I’ll enlist the 5 best free apps listed that have strong privacy safeguards, encryption technology, and additional features, making them great alternatives to WhatsApp.
1. Signal
Signal is among the most secure messaging apps out there, so it is mostly used by journalists, activists, and other privacy-focused individuals. Moreover, the company’s revenue model focuses on philanthropy and grants. As a result, it does not collect personal data or serve ads, making it easier to focus on privacy features.
Key features of Signal
- Signal provides E2EE (End-to-End Encryption) for all messages, calls, and media using the Signal Protocol.
- No chat logs, contact lists, or metadata are usually recorded in Signal.
- Self-destructing features allow messages to get deleted autonomously.
- Screen security reinforces privacy by blocking screenshots within chats.
- Available on Androids, iPhones, Desktops, and other devices, for smooth and syncable access cross-platform.
Technical security and privacy guarantees:
Signal encryption is open-source, meaning it undergoes independent audits. Thus, encryption is constantly verified by multiple security experts, ensuring its reliability. Unlike other apps. Signal does not store any messages on servers, meaning there is no risk of getting hacked.
2. Telegram
Telegram is mostly preferred for speedy messaging, public group chats and large file sharing. Moreover, it is recognized by communities, businesses and public figures because of its multifunctionality.
Key features
- One-on-one conversations on Telegram can be held in Secret Chats with E2EE.
- Telegram allows cloud-based messaging which lets users access chats from different devices.
- Supergroups can have as many as 200,000 members which is very helpful for big communities.
- File sharing is up to 4GB which is better than WhatsApp.
- Customizable bots, themes and stickers can be used to improve user experience.
Technical security and privacy guarantees:
Telegram uses MTProto encryption, offering only end-to-end verification in secret chats. Regular chats, while easier to access are not as private as cloud servers. However, you can improve security by enabling two-step verification.
3. Viber
Viber is for those who are looking to make voice and video calls as it is one of the best substitutes for WhatsApp. The app offers excellent quality communication with extra security to ensure privacy during chats.
Key features
- E2EE for messages, voice and video calls, guaranteeing full confidentiality.
- Hidden chats with self-destructing messages for extra protection.
- Users can call non-Viber users for international calls at low rates using Viber Out.
- Use stickers, and GIFs, and organize group video calls to take chats to the next level.
- Sync chats across devices – accessible via Android, iPhones, or desktops.
Technical security and privacy guarantees:
Similar to banks and governments, Viber employs AES-256 encryption. This guarantees messages and calls can’t be intercepted or accessed by outside parties.
4. Threema
Threema is a privacy-focused messaging application that allows for complete anonymity. However, its Sign-up avoids the requirement of a phone number or email, unlike WhatsApp.
Key features
- Complete security for messages, voice calls, and file transfers using E2EE encryption.
- Anonymity ensures no phone number or email is needed—users get random IDs.
- Messages no longer have tracking metadata which restricts exchanges.
- Collaboration can be done through polls, group chats, or file sharing.
- One-time payment subscriptions, no ads, no tracking, or hidden charges.
Technical security and privacy guarantees:
No cloud servers will ever touch Threema’s messages which means everything stays local on the device. Thus, your phone’s encryption keys ensure optimal security.
5. Wire
Wire is a secure messaging app and enterprise-grade solution and is also versatile for personal use.
Key features
- E2EE protects messages, calls, and file sharing, so all communications are private.
- Support login on multiple devices and sync them.
- Timed messages that can self-destruct after a certain duration.
- Ideal for workplace communication, conference calls, and team collaborations.
- Complete absence of advertisements and trackers, and a no-cost encryption system.
Technical security and privacy guarantees:
Wire operates using a zero-knowledge model which means the company cannot read any user’s messages. Moreover, just like Signal this app is also open-source, independently audited, and thus offers complete transparency and security.
Ensure your and families message and privacy security
Although messaging apps allow you to stay connected with your family, friends, and colleagues in a fun way. However, you have to stay cautious, otherwise, hackers or scammers and even the app itself can track your data. So, I recommend you to follow the below-mentioned guidelines to ensure your and your family’s privacy!
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This option adds an additional safety net with every log in, thus blocking hacker access.
- Be careful with Links and Unrecognized Messages: Strangers often send malicious links aimed at stealing data. So, avoid engaging with messages from unknown sender.
- Check App Permissions: Moreover, some apps request an alarming amount of contact, camera, and location. These requests must be validated before clicking allow.
- Update Apps Regularly: Most importantly keep in mind that outdated versions of apps can be susceptible to attachment of malware. Thus, regular updates tend to fix issues with security loopholes.
- Avoid Using Weak Passwords: Do remember that the simple password 123456 is ill-advised. Instead, you have to use a combination of numbers, letters and symbols like Ghji@1277!
- Disable Read Receipts & Online Status: Lastly, I would recommend you to disable read receipts and your last seen. Because when these options are enabled, they allow strangers to see when you are online.
Bonus: Manage your child’s usage and set content filters
We all know how much kids enjoy using chat and social networking applications. However, some of the content is not age-appropriate. So, as a responsible parent, you should take measures to reduce their exposure to the internet. And happy to share that FlashGet Kids parental control is best serving in this case. With FlashGet Kids, you can do the following:
- Supervise your child’s messages and calls so that they are not communicating with any strangers.
- Set time limits on the apps so that they don’t spend an excessive amount of time online.
- Prevent them from accessing age-inappropriate content by setting keywords. Thus, if kids try to browse such words you will get an instant alert.
- Monitor their location in order to ensure their physical safety.
Thus, with protective applications, safety measures and tools such as FlashGet Kids, your family’s safety can be guaranteed while still being in touch.
Final words
In short, Although Whats app is a very popular messaging platform. However, due to its privacy concerns and limited features many other apps like Signal, Telegram, and Threemaare as WhatsApp alternatives. Furthermore, if you have children, their safety is also essential. FlashGet Kids allows you to supervise their chats, set restrictions on time, and filter inappropriate material. So, adopt the use of a safer messaging app today to guarantee your family’s security online!
