Secret Conversations in Messenger: Facebook’s Respond to Security Demands

Facebook launched Secret Conversations feature in its messenger, which provides end-to-end encryption to users. This is similar to what Viber, WhatsApp, Line and Google features in their apps.

The Facebook team mentioned in their blogpost, "We've heard from you that there are times when you want additional safeguards -- perhaps when discussing private information like an illness or a health issue with trusted friends and family, or sending financial information to an accountant".

With the growing public demands for privacy, Facebook set additional security platforms on their messenger app to fully secure users. Even the Facebook team will not have the capability to view these private messages.

Messages sent using the Secret Conversations feature will only be available for viewing on the specific mobile phone, tab or laptop currently being used by the person. Messages on the previously used device will not be available on another device.

Users can also set an expiration to specific messages. Once set, messages will auto delete depending on the expiration set by the user, it can be after five seconds to a day.

Secret Conversations feature should be turned on when starting new messages within the messenger. And both users should have the latest version of iOS and Android app to take advantage of it.

This new Facebook messenger feature, Secret Conversations, definitely makes a mark in the securing the private lives of their users. We can now confidently exchange private messages, family related matters and even sensitive financial related documents over the internet.

However, this can also be a used as a vehicle for violence, political purposes and even terroristic methods.

Due to the intention of respecting people's privacy and complying with privacy regulations, Facebook cannot do background checks on people joining the Facebook community. Thus, making Secret Conversations susceptible to violent acts.

 Although the battle between Apple and FBI is over, continued feuds can be expected between Silicon Valley firms and law enforcement, this is due to the possible global threats that may arise in using these privacy apps.