Meta Platforms has announced the initiation of end-to-end encryption for all personal chats and calls on Messenger and Facebook, marking a significant move in prioritizing user privacy. While the feature is available immediately, the implementation of default end-to-end encryption across all Messenger accounts may take some time.
Unlike the previous option to manually activate end-to-end encryption, Meta's update ensures that messages are automatically encrypted by default. This change aligns with Meta's commitment to user safety, as encryption is deemed effective in thwarting potential threats from hackers, fraudsters, and criminals.
It's worth noting that Meta's WhatsApp platform already incorporates end-to-end encryption for messages. Nevertheless, the adoption of this security measure has sparked debates between tech companies and governments. In a recent development, the British government had urged Meta not to introduce encryption on Instagram and Facebook Messenger without adequate safety measures, particularly concerning the protection of children from potential risks, such as sexual abuse.