A few weeks ago, Facebook started rolling out their encryption system for the Messenger app dubbed “Secret Conversations”. This opt-in feature creates a conversation that is “encrypted end-to-end, which means the messages are intended just for you and the other person—not anyone else, including Facebook.” Wow, that’s sneaky, spy-movie level stuff there, folks.
Of course, it’s up to the users to keep that encryption useful, as the person you’re messaging could choose to share the conversation with others – like through a screenshot. Both you and the other person in the secret conversation have a device key that you can use to verify that the messages are end-to-end encrypted. Neat-o.
Right now, the Secret Conversations feature is currently available only for the Messenger app on iOS and Android devices, and for certain users only. To check for its availability, you have to update to the latest version for your device.
Users with the feature will find the “secret” option on the top right of the “new message” screen. This feature also allows senders to set expiration times for their messages ranging from five seconds to a whole day.
Secret Conversations can be very useful for scenarios where you need to message sensitive information – like ATM PIN codes, bank account numbers – over to someone. Set an expiration timer for messages containing stuff like that and you’ll be worry-free of other, unintended folks getting access to your valuable message contents.
What’s your take on this new feature, readers? Got any other interesting applications of Secret Conversations in daily life? Get creative and shout out below, folks!
