5 Free Alternatives to WhatsApp – [Best For Privacy & Safety]

Free  WhatsApp alternatives are in demand: since Facebook bought the chat app, many users have been worried about their data. We introduce you to five free messenger apps for Android and iOS.

Secure messengers: Write encrypted with Telegram and Threema

After many media reports of espionage attacks in recent years or after the data scandal on Facebook, many users are wondering how they can protect themselves from NSA, “data octopuses” and the like. At least in the mobile area, there are various messengers that transmit your messages in encrypted form. It is (almost) impossible for outsiders to spy out your data.

• Telegram: With this cloud-based free app, so-called “secure chats” and calls can be started that work with end-to-end encryption. However, you must actively select this.
• With Telegram, you can make video calls and send text messages, photos, videos, various file types (including audio), and stickers. You can also share your current location.
• Telegram can also be used on the computer and is available for the following operating systems: Android, iOS, Windows, Windows Phone, macOS, GNU / Linux. You can find all available downloads in our download area.
• Three is a safe alternative, but you have to pay for it. This secure messenger also uses end-to-end encryption. It also differentiates between different levels of trust for contacts: You can be verified by your friends by scanning their Threema QR codes with your smartphone.

Signal as a safe alternative to WhatsApp

A signal is also particularly popular. This messenger is also secure – so secure that even Edward Snowden uses it.

• This messenger service also uses secure end-to-end encryption.
• We also like the option to only make messages visible for a short time. It is possible to leave certain messages “activated” for a few seconds or weeks, after which they are automatically deleted.
• signal can also be used as a desktop app. Here you have to couple the smartphone app with the desktop app via QR code.
• You can find all downloads with us. The signal is available for Android, iOS, and Windows, Linux, and Mac users will find what they are looking for with the developer.
• Signal is very nearly whatsApp alternatives.

Viber

Long before WhatsApp, Viber ( Android and iOS ) offered a special function: free calls. This can now also be done via WhatsApp – but Viber still has a few options that other messengers do not offer.

• Call other Viber users over the Internet with the free messenger. You can not only send and receive text messages and pictures but also make international calls for free.
• You can also call your call partners on the landline network via Viber at a lower cost.
• Another option: the “Local Viber Number”. You can also get a foreign telephone number for a fee and then receive calls and SMS abroad at no additional cost. You can cancel the service at any time.
• In addition to emoticons, the free WhatsApp alternatives also includes stickers. You also share your location with other users.
• With Viber you can also create group chats with up to 250 people, you can capture and send special moments with 30-second videos and play Viber games with friends.

Skype

Skype is well known as one of the oldest VoIP services – and has been available for a long time not only for desktop but also as a mobile app for Android and iOS. If you have a Microsoft account, you can use it to sign in on Skype.

• Skype enables free voice and video calls over the Internet.
• The functions you use on the desktop are also available on your mobile phone: you can send a text or video messages, photos, and files.
• Group chats and video conferences with several people are possible on the smartphone.
• The Skype Translator translates calls into German, English, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, and Chinese in real-time.

Use social media apps as messengers

In addition to the messenger services, you can also use some social media apps to communicate with friends and family. Among other things, these apps offer the option to send private messages direct messages:

• Instagram (private messages can also be sent from the desktop )
• Twitter (including group chats )
• Snapchat (including group chats )