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MNN Global · March 4, 2026 · 1 min read

TikTok refuses to use end-to-end encryption for direct messages

What happened: TikTok has announced it will not implement end-to-end encryption for its direct messages, unlike platforms such as WhatsApp and Messenger. The company says this decision is to avoid putting users at risk.

Why it matters:

  • Users' private messages on TikTok will not have the highest level of encryption protection.
  • This approach may affect user privacy and security compared to other messaging apps.

MNN Take: TikTok prioritises user safety over encryption, citing potential risks, which means messages may be more accessible to the company or authorities than on fully encrypted platforms.

Sources: BBC World