TikTok will not add end-to-end encryption to direct messages, the report says

TikTok will not offer end-to-end encryption for direct messages (DMs) on its platform, according to a new report from BBC. The social media giant says end-to-end encryption will make users less safe, as it believes the technology will prevent police and safety teams from accessing messages when necessary.

TikTok told the outlet that this was a deliberate decision to differentiate itself from competitors and protect users, especially younger ones, from harm.

With end-to-end encryption, only the sender and recipient of a direct message can view its contents.

The company said direct messages are still protected with standard encryption, similar to services like Gmail. Only authorized employees can access direct messages, and only under specific circumstances, such as in response to a valid law enforcement request or a user report of malicious behavior.

End-to-end encryption is the default technology used in popular apps like Signal, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger (for 1:1 personal chats and calls), Apple Messages, and Google Messages.