how is end to end encrypted text messages actually useful for the everyday user?

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I was listening to a podcast and there was an ad for WhatsApp with the whole premise that if you don’t use end to end encryption for your text messages, that those texts are as easy to view as it is listening to a podcast, which made me think: is that really true? Because I wouldn’t even know where to start to see someone else’s texts, nor would I be interested and I’m sure the average everyday person wouldn’t need to worry about it right?

Am I missing something? Is there a way that anyone can input my number and suddenly have access to all my texts?

In: Technology

8 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

This question is like asking “how is a lock on the front door actually useful to the everyday person living there?”

Using unencrypted messaging is like leaving your front door unlocked and all your window shades open at all times.

Yes, it’s true that if you’re a normal person in a safe area with no funny business going on, chances are no one is ever going to even try turning the doorknob maliciously or try to look in your bathroom window while you’re naked.

But in case someone ever *does* try that, isn’t it a good idea to lock the door and put the shades down by default? It barely costs you anything to do so, but it adds an extra layer that makes it more difficult for someone to go where you don’t want them.

“Who would do such a thing?” Indeed, but thats not the important question. The more important question is “who would *let* someone do such a thing so easily?”. Not me.

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