WhatsApp vs. Signal: Which Messenger Is Better for Data Protection
Summary
- WhatsApp is tightly integrated with Meta/Facebook, metadata is shared.
- End-to-end encryption exists, but doesn’t cover everything.
- WhatsApp stores messages on US servers, problematic for GDPR compliance.
- Cloud backups (especially in WhatsApp Business) weaken privacy.
- Signal offers better privacy by default: no ads, no monetization via data.
- Companies should consider privacy-focused alternatives like Signal or Threema for internal communication.
Many people use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues, but not all users know that the messenger is backed by the social media platform Facebook, which is known as a data octopus. WhatsApp users can therefore not always be sure that metadata and contact numbers are not being transmitted to Facebook. Facebook's hunger for data has always been viewed critically by data protectionists and alternatives are offered with Signal and Co.
Table of Contents:
How to rate data protection on WhatsApp?
How does WhatsApp handle existing data?
Is it possible to exist without WhatsApp?
What data does WhatsApp share with Facebook?
Signal vs. WhatsApp: Which messenger protects your data better?
How much data privacy does Signal offer?
How Signal handles your messages
Conclusion
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Important: The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided here is no substitute for personalized legal advice from a data protection officer or an attorney. We do not guarantee that the information provided is up to date, complete, or accurate. Any actions taken on the basis of the information contained in this article are at your own risk. We recommend that you always consult a data protection officer or an attorney with any legal questions or problems.