Use an encrypted messaging app instead of your phone’s default messaging app to secure your text messages. The app provider cannot read the text, only the sender and recipient can. Senders encrypt their messages on their devices, and recipients decrypt them on theirs. Encrypted messaging apps provide private and secure text messaging for free. They also have features like disappearing messages that self-destruct after a set period. You have encrypted video calls as well.
Enable two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication always adds an extra layer of security. Messaging apps allow two-factor authentication. It feature requires you to enter a code from a secondary device whenever logging into your messaging app on another device. If someone gets your login credentials, they won’t be able to access your account without the code. This authentication ensures that only you read messages sent to your account by requiring access to two separate devices. This option should be used whenever possible.
Limit sensitive information
what is private message box? To start, avoid sending sensitive information like passwords, financial data, or medical records through standard text messaging. It is best to share information of this type through a phone call or encrypted messaging app. If you do need to send something confidential in a text, try to provide the minimum amount of details required. For example, instead of including your full social security number, use the last four digits. Also refrain from discussing sensitive topics like work projects or legal issues over text, as these messages could come back to haunt you if made public. Keep text content fairly benign just to be safe.
Turn off message previews
Both iOS and Android devices display new message previews on their lock screens. Go into your settings turn off message previews and show only basic notifications instead.
- IOS and Android operating systems have options to make text messages disappear after a set amount of time. In iOS, open a conversation thread and tap the contact name at the top. Toggle on ‘Disappear Messages’ and select a duration.
- On Android, open the conversation, tap the contact name, and enable ‘Disappearing Messages’. Choose a duration anywhere from 5 seconds to one hour. It prevents past messages from being accessed.
Be wary of public wi-fi
Hackers intercept data and texts sent over public Wi-Fi much more easily than standard cellular connections. Avoid sending sensitive messages when connected to public hotspots in coffee shops, airports, hotels, etc. Wait until you are on a password-protected private network. Your messaging app likely holds onto years’ worth of old texts, even from contacts you no longer talk to. Take the time to periodically review old conversations and delete any texts you no longer need to save. It reduces the number of messages available in a data breach.
