Apps for sending self destructing messages are slowly but surely setting up camp in app stores, and it’s rumored that Facebook is next in line with Slingshot.
Snapchat, the app for sending self-destructing pictures, videos, and now messages, paved the way. Following the PRISM scandal, many developers have followed suit in various forms. Why? If millions of people already share images that self-destruct, why not offer a destructable e-mail or chat application?
Among a myriad of encrypted services, I have compiled a list of the five most successful multi-platform apps, including Confide, TigerText, or Privatext. Either way, there should be something for everyone.
Confide, the best compromise between security and ease of use
Available for Android and iOS, Confide succeeded in combining maximum security with exemplary ease of use.
The core of the system? To read incoming messages, you must slide your finger over the hidden message to make the message appear. In use, Confide protects you against any attempt at a screenshot. If the correspondent tries, you’ll be notified immediately and the image will not be saved.
In other words, if you’re looking for a serious application that’s easy to use, you can’t go wrong with Confide.
Privatext: the serious service
When you’re on Privatext, it’s all about mimimalism.
To create an account, simply fill in your email address. As the name suggests, Privatext is used for nothing more than to send secure text messages. When you open the app for the first time, you can see that the emphasis is clearly placed on security.
The biggest issue, however, is the interface: it could definitely use some improvement. During my test, I could see some bugs in the display, and if you choose to use Privatext daily, it could get annoying.
Frankly Chat: colorful, simple and safe
To create a Frankly Chat account, you have to provide your phone number, which the app uses to find potential contacts who are already registered with the service.
Fortunately, Frankly Chat has many good features to attract users: like Confide, it’s impossible to take screenshots of the program.
The data disclosure system is similar: content appears only when you touch the screen. Special mention must also be given to the editing options, which are comprehensive and fun to use.
TigerText Secure Messenger App: designed for companies
TigerText Secure Messenger App is more than an alternative to Snapchat. Recognized by industry professionals, TigerText is designed primarily for businesses.
Many medical professionals have already turned to TigerText. This multiplatform service allows all employees of a company to connect without having to exchange phone numbers.
Finally, and perhaps the best evidence of the seriousness and efficiency of this service, TigerText offers a $1 million guarantee if data sent using the service is intercepted.
Wickr: as convenient as it is effective
Wickr provides a good compromise between an interface that’s a pleasure to use, and enhanced security. It allows you to share any type of data, from video and audio messages, to photos.
Changing meeting times, adding colleagues without having their number, an ID system that performs well: these options allow you to use Wickr in a ton of different ways. In short, it’s an excellent choice for those wishing to make their communications secure.
Many options to suit your needs
Out of all the options, I think both Wickr and Confide offer the best options and most interesting apps.
Regardless, all these apps offer a great disposable service. After all, why should all of our conversations be stored forever on another company’s servers? Now that you know a little more, you can choose the service that suits you best.
If you want to use a more popular messaging app, check out our article comparing the privacy of some of our favorite messaging apps.
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