A matrix of capabilities of modern messengers with a focus on security

    Hi% Username%!

    I decided to compile a table of features of modern instant messengers with an eye to security and the threshold of entry. Perhaps this will help someone to choose the right tool for communication.
    About what I did - under the cut.
    Features / Messenger End-to-end encryption Encrypted Groupings Desktop client with encryption Encrypted voice calls Need a server Id
    Telegram Yes, you need to create a secure chat separately To the server (Durov can read) Cutegram Not Yes Tel number, nickname
    Signal Yes (mobile only) Yes (mobile only) not yet Yes Yes Tel number
    Tox Yes Yes (desktop only yet) Yes Yes + group Not Public key, you need a different one on each instance
    Whatsapp It seems like yes (Android only) Not Https ? Yes Tel number
    Skype No, the FSB has access Not To server Not Yes Login
    Viber No, the FSB has access Not To server ? Yes Tel number
    Jabber + otr (Pidgin, ChatSecure) Yes Not Yes Not Yes Login
    Remarks
    • By default, Telegram has encryption only to the server, and there is only trust in Durov. Secret chat needs to be cut separately.
    • WhatsApp kind of screwed the same encryption as in Signal, but there are no details and it seems only on androids it works
    • Signal is the most secure of convenient non-anonymous messengers, but there is no desktop client. Actively sawing a web extension for chrome. I advise you to take a closer look. Low entry threshold.
    • Tox is his future, but so far he is very raw. And you need to generate as many Id as you have devices on the network at the same time, otherwise it will fail. But he only has anonymous group encrypted voice conferences (unless the client crashes)
    • Jabber + OTR. great security but high entry threshold with tons of settings
    • Viber, Skype - only if you do not mind that the authorities read your conversations almost in real time.
    UPD
    Here is a good comparison plate.

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