Google Adds Encryption Feature In SMS Service

JAKARTA - Although enthusiasts have long abandoned it, they prefer to switch to using instant messaging applications such as WhatsApp. But Google is rumored to be adding new security to its short message feature.

Google will embed end-to-end encryption security in the RCS (Rich Communications Services) application on Android phones. RCS is a slightly more modern version when compared to SMS. This RCS application is similar to Apple's iMessage.

It is known, RCS can send better quality videos and photos, see when chats are read, send and receive messages via Wi-FI, improve group chat capabilities and send reactions to messages.

Basically, it's a texting feature that gets all the features of a modern messaging app. Currently RCS can be used on all Android devices around the world.

However, end-to-end encryption security is not currently available, it will begin rolling out to beta users first before finally making it public.

According to Google, eligible messages will be encrypted automatically, and both participants must use the Google Messages app with chat features enabled.

For those unfamiliar, end-to-end encryption is where only the user himself holds the keys to decrypt the contents. This means that hackers will not be able to read it. It also means Google itself won't be able to see the content because they don't hold the key.

This security is very important to user privacy, even though many law enforcement agencies feel strongly against it because they will not be able to access message content to assist them in solving cases. This was quoted from Ubergizmo, Friday, November 20.