Meta starts implementing end-to-end encryption on Messenger and Facebook
2 min read
With the modifications, Meta won’t access message content unless reported
The end-to-end encryption on Messenger and Facebook, based on Signal and Labyrinth protocols, is being gradually introduced by Meta, according to Loredana Crisan, Meta’s Messenger vice president. The extensive development effort involved rebuilding the app entirely, requiring collaboration among engineers, designers, and cryptographers over several years.
“We collaborated with external experts, academics, advocates, and governments to assess risks and implement measures, ensuring a balance between privacy and safety.”
“Messenger introduced opt-in encrypted messaging in 2016, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg initially mentioned the move in 2019. Originally planned for default implementation in 2022, the launch was postponed due to concerns about hindering the detection of child abuse on Meta’s platform. With the changes, Meta will no longer have access to message content unless a user reports a message. While the new features are immediately available, the transition to default end-to-end encryption in Messenger chats will take some time.
Rolling out end-to-end encryption to over 1 billion users on the platform will span several months. Users will be prompted to set up a recovery method for message restoration after the transition is finished. The implementation is expected to spark concerns among law enforcement and child protection groups, which have consistently opposed companies adopting end-to-end encryption. Former UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman urged Meta in September not to proceed with the plan.
“Meta has failed to provide assurances about keeping their platforms safe from abusive content,” she stated. “They need to establish appropriate safeguards alongside their plans for end-to-end encryption.”
Currently, end-to-end encryption will not be applied to Instagram. However, the company announced in August that the change would extend to Instagram once the Messenger upgrade is completed. WhatsApp conversations are already encrypted.
The rollout includes additional features such as the ability to edit a message within 15 minutes of sending, disappearing messages lasting 24 hours, control over whether a user can see if you’ve read their message, and the ability to listen to voice messages at 1.5 or 2 times speed.
