TikTok won’t add end-to-end encryption to direct messages, report says

Source: TechCrunch

In Brief

Image: TikTok icon
Image Credits: Editorial RF (opens in a new window) / Getty Images

TikTok will not introduce end‑to‑end encryption for direct messages (DMs) on its platform, according to a new report from the BBC. The company says end‑to‑end encryption would make users less safe because it would prevent police and safety teams from accessing messages when necessary.

TikTok told the outlet that this is a deliberate decision to distinguish itself from rivals and protect users—particularly younger ones—from harm.

How TikTok Handles Direct Messages

• Direct messages are protected with standard encryption, similar to services like Gmail.
• Only authorized employees can access direct messages, and only under specific circumstances, such as:
  • A valid law‑enforcement request.
  • A user report of harmful behavior.

End‑to‑End Encryption in Other Apps

End‑to‑end encryption is the default technology used in popular apps such as:

• Signal
• WhatsApp
• Facebook Messenger (for 1:1 personal chats and calls)
• Apple Messages
• Google Messages

These platforms ensure that only the sender and recipient can view the contents of a message.