Meta Platforms has started rolling out default end-to-end encryption for all one-on-one chats and calls on Facebook Messenger and Facebook.
The feature will be enabled immediately for some accounts and rolled out to all Messenger users over the next few weeks.
End-to-end encryption ensures that messages can only be read by the sender and recipient, preventing third parties like hackers or governments from accessing private conversations.
Previously, Messenger had the option to turn on end-to-end encryption, but it was not enabled by default. WhatsApp has encrypted messages by default since 2016.
The move brings Messenger and Facebook messaging in line with WhatsApp’s security standards.
The rollout comes despite opposition from some governments, including the UK, which has urged Meta not to enable encryption without safety measures to combat child exploitation.
Meta claims encryption ultimately keeps users safe from criminals.
