Some people believe that using private messaging apps such as Signal and WhatsApp ensures total security. The truth is otherwise. Although these apps provide end-to-end encryption, their security can be breached by user mistakes, device weaknesses, and incorrect settings.
A recent alert from the NSA explains how millions of iPhone and Android users unwittingly leave themselves vulnerable to cyberattacks.
NSA's Warning: User Vulnerability, Not App Flaws
The NSA's latest alert, prompted by Google's Threat Intelligence Group, highlighted that Russia's GRU had influenced Ukrainian officials to provide access to their Signal accounts. This was not a result of Signal or other messaging apps' vulnerability, but resulted from users' behavior. The NSA's warning was stern. Users should alter their messaging settings to prevent such an occurrence.
When Convenience Meets Danger
Two features that make secure messaging apps more convenient can also become their worst enemy, according to Forbes.
The first one is the Linked Devices. This option synchronizes your messages from more than one device. It's indeed convenient, but it leaves a completely replicated version of your account on another device if exploited. Take some time to review and unlink any unknown devices in your app's settings to avoid unauthorized use.
Another one is the Group invite links, which are convenient for adding new members, but can share sensitive conversations with the wrong users. Signal provides disabling group links under group settings. On WhatsApp, you cannot disable links, but you can limit group invites to admin-only to keep control.
Recent Signal Issue Connected to the Trump Administration
Previously, Tech Times reported that the Pentagon issued a warning about the Signal app. While Russian hackers were accused of the incident, it's alarming to know the Trump administration's plans for its "classified military activities" in Yemen.
A writer from The Atlantic received the leaked chat about their next target, weapons, and some information about military attacks. If the government cannot properly manage its national security secrets, it's more dangerous for the users.
as an admin, are you letting group members add other people to the chat?
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) March 19, 2025
"But again, that doesn't change the user/device vulnerability, which will always leave secure messaging at risk. "The biggest risk of eavesdropping on a Signal conversation comes from the individual phones that the app is running on," Foreign Policy said.
"While it's largely unclear whether the U.S. officials involved had downloaded the app onto personal or government-issued phones... smartphones are consumer devices, not at all suitable for classified U.S. government conversations," the website added.
To help prevent these risks, do the following best practices:
- Regularly review the "Linked Devices" area and eliminate unfamiliar devices.
- If you're managing a sensitive group, disable group invite links where possible.
- Update your app PIN frequently and enable screen locks.
- Avoid sharing your contact or status information, especially with unknown parties.
- Regularly update your phone's operating system to prevent vulnerabilities.
