Apple’s integration of Rich Communication Services (RCS) into iOS 18 has made messaging between iPhones and Android devices feel less frustrating. Features like high-resolution media sharing, typing indicators, and read receipts now improve the cross-platform experience. While this is a welcome update, I can’t help but feel concerned about the significant privacy and security issues still lurking in the background.
One of the biggest problems is the lack of end-to-end encryption in RCS chats between iPhones and Android devices. Unlike iMessage, where only the sender and recipient can read the messages, RCS conversations between iPhones and Androids are only encrypted in transit. That means anyone with access—whether it’s carriers or bad actors—can intercept and read them. Android users with Google Messages are slightly better off since RCS between Android devices can be end-to-end encrypted, but even that comes with limitations. As Zak Doffman explains in Forbes, RCS’s dependency on phone numbers and inconsistent carrier support leaves it flawed.
Why I’ve Stopped Using SMS
If you’re still relying on SMS, especially here in the U.S., you’re sticking with an outdated and insecure system. I made the decision to stop using SMS wherever possible, and here’s why:
- No Encryption
- Phishing and Spoofing Risks
- Weak 2FA Security
- Phone Number Dependency
Why This Is a U.S.-Specific Problem
The frustrating thing is that this dependence on SMS is largely an American issue. In most parts of the world, platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram are the go-to for everyday communication. Personally, I love using Signal and Threemabecause of their strong focus on security and privacy. The problem? Most of my friends and family are stuck on SMS, so I still end up using it more often than I’d like.
What Naomi Brockwell Says About Texting and Privacy
Privacy advocate Naomi Brockwell often talks about how our choices impact not just our own privacy but also the privacy of those we communicate with. One thing she said really stuck with me: “When you send a text message via an insecure platform like SMS, you weaken the privacy of the person in that conversation with you too.” That hit home for me because I realized that sticking with insecure channels doesn’t just affect me—it puts my loved ones at risk too. (Nordic Times)
Moving Toward Better Messaging
While Apple’s adoption of RCS helps address some usability frustrations, it’s not the privacy breakthrough we need. Platforms like Signal, WhatsApp, and Telegram have set the bar with end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and better security overall. As Zak Doffman points out in Forbes, RCS is still far behind because of its reliance on phone numbers and fragmented carrier support.
One of my favorite solutions is Threema. While it has a one-time cost of $5.99, it offers exceptional value. Threema combines the familiar interface and functionality of WhatsApp with robust privacy features. It uses end-to-end encryption for all communications, doesn’t require a phone number or email to register, and doesn’t store data on servers, minimizing its attack surface. For the price of a cup of coffee, you get a highly secure and private communication tool that feels modern and intuitive.
For me, the solution has been simple: move as much communication as possible to secure platforms. It’s not always convenient, but it’s worth it. If you’re still using SMS regularly, it’s time to rethink that choice—for your privacy and for the people you’re messaging. Let’s stop worrying about green vs. blue bubbles and start focusing on what really matters: keeping our conversations safe.
Where to Get Secure Messaging Apps
If you’re ready to move toward more secure and private communication, here’s where you can access the apps mentioned:
- Signal:
A free app offering robust end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and cross-platform functionality.
- WhatsApp:
A globally popular app with end-to-end encryption for messages, calls, and media sharing.
- Telegram:
Known for its speed and cloud-based messaging, Telegram offers encrypted secret chats and customization options.
- Threema:
A privacy-focused app with a one-time cost of $5.99, offering excellent encryption and minimal data collection.
Bibliography:
Doffman, Z. (2024, December 9). Google’s RCS nightmare: Why you need a new app. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2024/12/09/googles-rcs-nightmare-why-you-need-a-new-app/
How-To Geek. (n.d.). Why SMS text messages aren’t private or secure. Retrieved from https://www.howtogeek.com/709373/why-sms-text-messages-arent-private-or-secure/
Healthcare Business Club. (n.d.). 4 common SMS security threats and how to avoid them. Retrieved from https://healthcarebusinessclub.com/articles/business-supplier/business-management/4-common-sms-security-threats-and-how-to-avoid-them/
CyberHoot. (n.d.). Top five risks from SMS-based MFA. Retrieved from https://cyberhoot.com/blog/top-five-risks-from-sms-based-mfa/
Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC). (n.d.). Cybersecurity risks caused by SMS vulnerabilities. Retrieved from https://epic.org/documents/cybersecurity-risks-caused-by-sms-vulnerabilities/
Nordic Times. (n.d.). Your privacy choices affect others too. Retrieved from https://nordictimes.com/tech/your-privacy-choices-affect-others-too/
