Most communication apps offer end-to-end encryption. You have probably seen this term somewhere and wondered, what is this? And why is it everywhere?
End-to-end encryption is a method of secure communication that stops third parties or outsiders from accessing your information whilst it is being transferred from one device to another. Due to fear of having your data leaked during communications over different apps and websites, most have come up with end-to-end encryption so as to have their users feel safer and more at ease to express themselves when sharing information or having personal conversations.
With this encryption, data is encrypted on the sender’s devices and only the device of the recipient can decrypt it so that way if someone happens to tap the data midway through it being transferred, they will not be able to decrypt the message and attain information. And as the encrypted message travels to the recipient, it is impossible for any other internet service provider to tamper or read it. Even though it sounds like an excellent idea, this technology prevents service providers from sharing information with the authorities in case some of its users happen to be involved in illicit activities and deals.
What makes this encryption unique is how only the sender and receipt devices are capable of decrypting and reading the message. Service providers using end-to-end encryption include Facebook, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Zoom.
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How does End-to-End Encryption Work?
The endpoints are the sender and receipt store the cryptographic keys using a public key encryption approach. The public key infrastructure or setup that the end-to-end encryption uses ensures that cannot eavesdrop on messages that you are sending.
The advantages of end-to-end encryption include ensuring your data is safe from hackers and protecting your privacy besides no one likes being eavesdropped on so in case you used any of those apps offering end-to-end encryption, you are rest assured of your privacy giving you the freedom to communicate what is on your mind directly with put going in circles.
Read Also: How to Enable End-to-End Encrypted WhatsApp Backups
Pros of End-to-End Encryption
Privacy: Yes, we all have the information we would prefer to keep within our chats only (almost all information). Now that is where end-to-end encryption comes in. you are sure that there is no one else accessing your messages besides the intended receiver unless they decide to screenshot or screen record your conversation. (at least you will know who the traitor is). With end-to-end encryption, you can go about all your business online without worrying about someone prying on your messages.
Tampering protection: Apparently, before this option was availed someone could alter your messages to a different receiver or even change the content. With end-to-end encryption, you can now text freely and share information because you are officially safe against message tampering from anyone!
Cons of End-to-End Encryption
It is complex to define endpoints sometimes. Well as end-to-end encryption allows data to be encrypted and decrypted only by the receiver device, some implementations allow it to be decrypted and then re-encrypted again halfway through the journey at certain points during transmission. This may cause a mix up so the endpoints have to be clearly defined and distinguished.
Exceeding privacy: Well privacy is a good thing and we all welcome it, it also gives permission for others to share illicit information because they are sure the government and law enforcement agencies will not be able to access that information and locate or punish them.
Metadata can be seen: Well as you may have the assurance of privacy for the message and its contents, information like the time, date, and recipient are still visible and it can be a starting point for a determined investigator.
Read Also: How to Enable End-to-End Encryption on Telegram
What End-to-End Encryption doesn’t offer?
Limited Privacy: End-to-end encryption offers privacy only to a certain point. Your message content is guaranteed safety but the date, time and recipient can be accessed. This can give interceptors a clue on where to start.
Vulnerable intermediaries: Did you know that some providers claim to offer end-to-end encryption but only offer something close to it? The data may be encrypted but stored in an intermediate server where it can be accessed.
Compromised endpoints: – If an endpoint has been compromised, a hacker may be able to view the message before its encrypted or after it has been decrypted by the receiver.