Signal vs Telegram vs WhatsApp: Which messaging app to choose if security matters

In a world where digital privacy is increasingly under threat, choosing a secure messaging app can make a real difference. Signal, Telegram, and WhatsApp are three of the most popular platforms—but how do they compare when it comes to protecting your data?

End-to-end encryption is not always guaranteed

Signal is the only app that offers end-to-end encryption by default for all messages, calls, and shared content. This means no one—not even Signal—can access your data. WhatsApp, owned by Meta, also uses end-to-end encryption for chats and calls, but shares metadata with its parent company, raising privacy concerns. Telegram, by contrast, does not offer full end-to-end encryption by default; only its “Secret Chats” are protected this way—and those are only available on the device where the chat was started.

Metadata collection and data sharing

While Signal collects virtually no metadata, Telegram and WhatsApp store user information, including IP addresses and contact lists. Telegram has recently updated its privacy policy to allow sharing user data with law enforcement under legal request. WhatsApp, on the other hand, has faced criticism for sharing user data with Meta’s broader ecosystem, potentially affecting user privacy.

Additional features and risks

Telegram stands out for its large public channels and broadcast capabilities, but these chats are not end-to-end encrypted and are visible to anyone on the platform. WhatsApp offers more limited group communication features but maintains encryption. Signal, while more minimal, focuses purely on privacy and lets users set messages to disappear after seconds.

In the end, if your top priority is strong, consistent security and minimal data collection, Signal remains the best option.