When it comes to personal data and privacy, the only way we can really assess the security a software platform offers is by looking at the code. Free and open source alternatives to proprietary platforms, offer us, the user, that opportunity.

With the recent acquisition by Facebook of WhatsApp the popular mobile chat app, many people tired of the ongoing centralisation and commodification of personal communications are looking for alternatives.

One such alternative is the open source Telegram. There has recently been some debate about the security of the platform of which Paul Miller has compiled a good overview. It seems Telegram are so confident in their security that they offer –

“Anyone who claims that Telegram messages can be deciphered is welcome to prove that claim in our competition and win $200,000. You can check out the Contest FAQ to learn more.”

So next time someone asks you if you are on WhatsApp, just ask them if they are on Telegram instead.

For more secure mobile apps check out https://guardianproject.info/apps