Messengers
Best Privacy-Focused Messaging Apps
(2025)
Briar
Briar is a Tor-routed, E2EE, P2P, anonymity-oriented messenger with some of the most robust protections. It can even be used without internet access.
Signal
Signal is the gold standard for private & secure messaging, all with a simple interface. Threat modeling is necessary though, as Signal requires a phone number to register which may be problematic for some. We recommend using Signal with usernames for improved privacy. Use our hardening guide below for max safety.
Molly
Molly is an independent Signal fork for Android. You can use it alongside your regular Signal account for extra features & security perks. Keep in mind it's not officially endorsed by Signal and introduces a new party to trust.
SimpleX
SimpleX prides itself on requiring no identifiers, is decentralized, and is audited with fairly competitive features. Your data is your own with no central servers.
Session
Session strives for a balance between privacy, security, anonymity, & usability.
Matrix
Matrix is a federated protocol with the option for E2EE. There is a degree of trust with each homeserver, especially regarding metadata. Its federation is both a pro & a con that users should be aware of before using.
Threema
Pay once, chat forever. E2EE messenger with solid practices. Open Source.
Bitchat
Bitchat is a decentralized peer-to-peer messaging application that operates over bluetooth mesh networks. no internet required, no servers, no phone numbers. . Open Source.