Chat Not Safe! Meta Delay Brings End-to-End Encryption On Messenger And Instagram

Meta is reportedly delaying rolling out a more private messaging feature aka end-to-end encryption (E2EE) (photo: pixabay doc)

JAKARTA - Messenger and Instagram parent company Meta is reportedly delaying rolling out a more private messaging feature aka end-to-end encryption (E2EE) into the two applications.

Meta's head of security, Antigone David explained that the delay was not without reason, but rather that Meta was concerned about the safety of users. Because implementing E2EE means that only the sender and receiver will see their conversations.

However, Davis said Meta wants to ensure that this doesn't interfere with the platform's ability to help stop criminal activity. Once E2EE is available by default, "enterprises will use a combination of unencrypted data across our applications, account information, and user reports to help keep it safe, while aiding public safety efforts," Davis said.

The Verge, Monday, November 22, said Meta merged Messenger and Instagram chat last year, as part of its plan to create a unified messaging system across all its platforms.

While messages sent via Messenger and Instagram can be E2EE, that option isn't enabled by default, and likely won't come until 2023. However, other Meta subsidiaries like WhatsApp, have supported E2EE by default for a long time.

This new report comes as a surprise, as earlier this year Meta stated that the default E2EE will be available on Instagram and Messenger as early as 2022. But in reality, this feature was delayed until 2023.

However, this delay may cause confusion for the company due to the legislation that will apply in the UK. The country enacted safety laws in 2023 that would oblige tech companies to prevent abuse and protect children. Although it does not require backdoors encryption.

Current UK Home Secretary Priti Patel has not been shy about opposing default encryption, claiming the feature would severely limit law enforcement's ability to pursue criminals. Meta may face pressure to change its plans by the time the law comes into effect.

Davis said Meta will still have the power to detect abuse through a combination of unencrypted info and user reports. The delay may also offer time to reassure the government and prevent potential conflict.