Why Should You Stop Texting: Cybersecurity Experts Reveal The Truth And Dangers

If you’re still sending texts the old-fashioned way, it might be time to reconsider.

Cybersecurity pros are urging Brits to ditch traditional SMS messaging after a stark warning from the FBI revealed the vulnerability of texts sent between Androids and iPhones. The concern? These unencrypted messages could make you a target for hackers—especially those linked to China.

The Risk Behind SMS

The issue lies in how SMS messages work. Unlike modern messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal, SMS isn’t encrypted. This means messages can potentially be intercepted by hackers, leaving your private chats exposed. Jake Moore, a security advisor at ESET, told MailOnline‘s Science & Technology Reporter Jonathan Chadwick, “Messages sent between Android and iPhone are forced across the SMS network, which is not encrypted.” In other words, those messages are far less secure than you might think.

While intercepting texts requires advanced tools, Dr. Luca Arnaboldi from the University of Birmingham says the likelihood is low. But even a small risk is too much when you could simply switch to a safer option.

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Why Encryption Matters

Apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram use end-to-end encryption, which ensures only you and the recipient can read your messages. Even the app’s creators can’t access them. Signal, in particular, stands out as a favorite among privacy advocates. “Privacy-focused messaging platforms like Signal tick all the right boxes,” Moore added in the same article.

What About iMessage and Google Messages?

If you’re texting someone on the same platform—say iPhone to iPhone using iMessage or Android to Android via Google Messages—you’re generally safe, as these platforms also use encryption. The problem arises when you text across platforms, as those messages revert to the insecure SMS network.

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The Bigger Picture

This push for encrypted messaging is fueled by growing concerns about cyberespionage. Recently, the FBI linked SMS vulnerabilities to a hacking campaign by Chinese groups, dubbed “Salt Typhoon.” While China denies these allegations, experts like Luke Dash, CEO of ISMS.online, warn that Brits should take note. “Text messages sent via SMS are not as secure as we might think,” Dash says, urging users to make the switch to encrypted apps.

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Best Alternatives to SMS

Looking for a safer option? Here are five encrypted messaging apps to consider:

1. Telegram: Offers self-destructing messages and end-to-end encryption (though not by default).
2. Signal: Open-source and highly secure, making it a top choice for privacy.
3. iMessage: Great for iPhone users, with features like Animoji and multimedia support.
4. Google Messages: Perfect for Android users, integrating seamlessly with Google services.
5. Facebook Messenger: Includes features like secret chats and video calls, though privacy concerns remain.

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The Bottom Line

SMS might feel like a relic of the past, but it’s still widely used. However, with risks like hacking and interception on the rise, it’s worth switching to a more secure messaging app. As Muhammad Ajmal Azad, a cybersecurity expert told Johnathan Chadwick MailOnline, “SMS messages have shortcomings that might affect security and privacy.” Protect your chats—and yourself—by making the move to encrypted platforms.