Right off the bat, the answer to the question in the title is no. Google Hangouts does not have end-to-end encryption. Google describes Hangouts encryption as functional, as it encrypts messages in transit, that is, when they are sent.
What this means is that Google has access to all your messages on Hangouts. It’s up to you to decide whether you agree with it or not. Stay with us for a deeper discussion, along with security tips and some suggestions for alternative messaging apps (with end-to-end encryption).
Google Hangouts: the truth behind the curtains
Controversy always followed Google Hangouts, which was never a leading messaging application. The competition is very tough in this category, with Facebook consolidating itself on the throne of instant messaging with Messenger and WhatsApp clients.
One of the reasons Hangouts isn’t as reliable as its competitors is because it lacks end-to-end encryption. Ultimately, this type of encryption is the most secure, because it protects messages from prying eyes. Only the sender and receiver of the message can see the message.
People were not that worried about their online privacy until Edward Snowden made his controversial revelations and shook everyone. After that, all major companies like Google and Apple doubled down on their encryption systems.
The problem with Google Hangouts is that it was never secure enough. If you think that only Google has access to your Hangouts messages, you are wrong. Apparently, they shared their users’ information with government agencies, but they did not want to reveal how many times.
How to use Google Hangouts safely
Google Hangouts isn’t that bad iOS either Android if you know how to stay safe online. The first thing you should avoid is sending image URLs if they are confidential. Hangouts uses public URL sharing, which is very vulnerable to third-party attention.
You don’t have to be a hacker to access these public images, so keep that in mind. The safest way to use Google Hangouts or any other online application is with a reliable VPN service.
ExpressVPN is ahead of its competition, being the number one VPN client worldwide. The official site provides more details and the registration form. You don’t need special encryption for any app if you’re connected to a trusted VPN, as it adds layers of security.
The best thing about ExpressVPN is that it works on almost any modern device, including tablets, phones, computers, routers, etc.
Try some safer alternatives
You can stick with Google Hangouts if you want, but there are some better alternatives with end-to-end encryption. Some options are more popular than others, but fundamentally all are more secure than Google Hangouts.
WhatsApp is a world-renowned application used by millions of people daily. It offers all the features of the messaging app with end-to-end encryption. This encryption was added in 2016 and works. Only the sender and recipient can see messages. The same goes for audio and video calls in the app.
You can get WhatsApp at Android either iOS devices. Additional WhatsApp security measures include password account verification and encryption code verification in the contact details menu. And WhatsApp guarantees that it does not store any messages.
wicker
Wickr is a messaging app that is gaining popularity thanks to its security features. It has a personal use application and business use application. You can use Wickr on Android, iOS, Mac, Linux, and Windows devices. Not only are messages encrypted with end-to-end encryption, but so are calls.
On top of that, the app features screenshot notifications if it detects users trying to save some messages. Additionally, the Wickr app for iOS blocks third-party keyboards, and on Android, it blocks screen overlays. The final security measure is the Secure Shredder, which protects files you’ve previously deleted from your device (which can otherwise be unearthed).
Sign
This article would not be complete without mentioning Signal, which is the standard-setting secure messaging app. They have an excellent end-to-end encryption system and even they (app developers) cannot decrypt your messages.
Voice and video calls are also encrypted. Its code is open source, providing complete transparency. If you wish, you can send messages that disappear after a while, for added caution. This app does not store any additional information and only saves the data you need. Finally, there is a two-step password security option you can use.
Sign It is available for Windows, iOS and Android devices.
Stay safe online
Google Hangouts has buggy encryption, which is acceptable to some, while others avoid it because of that. If you want to continue using it, remember to enable a secure VPN protocol.
The alternatives we offer here use end-to-end encryption, and if that is your main concern, we recommend using them in Google Hangouts. What is your favorite messaging application? Why did you choose it? Share your answers and questions in the comments section below.
