Because of the new data usage guidelines, many users are now looking for an alternative.
Schwarzach WhatsApp is probably the most popular messaging app in the world. Last year, according to the company, it recorded more than two billion users for the first time. The service, which has been part of Facebook since 2014, can be used to send text, audio or video messages or make phone calls free of charge.
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Now there is increasing criticism of the messenger service, which is helping competing providers such as Signal to create a real rush.
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Trouble about data protection
The reason for this is the new terms of use and data protection provisions on WhatsApp, which allow user data to be shared with all Facebook companies for advertising purposes. Due to the stricter data protection regulations in Europe, this only applies outside of Europe, assures Facebook. They only work together when it comes to improving services or when it comes to safety. For example, in the case of spam, threats, abuse or violations of rights. However, European users must also agree to these new conditions by February 8, 2021, because otherwise the service can no longer be used.
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Signal increasingly popular
The fact that many WhatsApp users are now angry and are turning their backs on the service helps the competitor Signal in particular to achieve an enormous increase in popularity. Signal is a non-profit organization and is therefore not tied to any large technology company. The service is financed through grants and donations from users.
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Signal received a boost in advance from its prominent supporters. “I use Signal every day,” whistleblower Edward Snowden is quoted on the company’s website. And Tesla boss Elon Musk recently asked on Twitter: “Use signal.” The provider itself is enthusiastic about the onslaught of new users. “We can hardly contain our excitement,” they say.
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Just like WhatsApp, Signal uses end-to-end encryption. This means that the messages can only be read by the sender and recipient. But why is it considered safer? In this context, experts point out two main points. Unlike WhatsApp, Signal does not collect any other user data except for the telephone number. In addition, the source code of the app is public.
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Swiss alternative
The Swiss messenger app Threema also completely reveals its source code and says it does not collect user data. However, unlike the competition, it is chargeable.
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