Messaging Apps
Privacy evaluation of messaging applications. Analyzed by Data Champion® for encryption, metadata protection, and data collection practices.
Help improve our evaluations
Observed good or bad data practices in messaging apps? Your insights help the community make informed decisions.
Report Data Practices🏆 Data Champion® Awards
Gold
94
Signal
Signal Foundation
FreeLOW RISK
Silver
91
Threema
Threema GmbH
$4.99 one-timeLOW RISK
Bronze
78
Telegram
Telegram FZ-LLC
FreeMEDIUM RISK
Category Risk Assessment
| Risk Category | Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Metadata Collection | MEDIUM | Most apps collect contact lists and usage patterns |
| End-to-End Encryption | LOW | Top apps use strong E2EE by default |
| Cloud Backups | HIGH | Unencrypted backups expose message history |
| Third-Party Sharing | MEDIUM | Some apps share data with parent companies |
| Phone Number Requirement | MEDIUM | Most require phone verification linking identity |
| Message Retention | LOW | Leading apps use ephemeral messaging options |
Product Comparison
| Product | Overall | Data Collection | Security | User Control | Transparency | Data Usage | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Signal Signal Foundation | 94 | 98 | 96 | 92 | 94 | 96 | Free |
Threema Threema GmbH | 91 | 96 | 94 | 90 | 88 | 94 | $4.99 one-time |
Telegram Telegram FZ-LLC | 78 | 72 | 82 | 80 | 76 | 74 | Free |
 iMessage Apple Inc. | 75 | 76 | 88 | 70 | 72 | 74 | Free (iOS only) |
 WhatsApp Meta Platforms | 68 | 58 | 84 | 64 | 68 | 60 | Free |
 Google Messages Google LLC | 62 | 52 | 76 | 58 | 64 | 56 | Free |
Scoring Criteria
Data Collection (30%)
Minimal metadata and contact gathering
Security (25%)
End-to-end encryption strength
User Control (20%)
Privacy settings and data deletion
Transparency (15%)
Clear policies and open source code
Data Usage (10%)
Third-party sharing practices