TikTok won't add end-to-end encryption to direct messages, report says | TechCrunch

"TikTok told the outlet that this is a deliberate decision to distinguish itself from rivals and protect users, particularly 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 harmful behavior."

TikTok has decided against implementing end-to-end encryption for its direct messaging system. The platform argues that end-to-end encryption would compromise user safety by preventing police and safety teams from accessing messages when necessary. TikTok positions this as a deliberate strategic choice to differentiate itself from competitors and protect users, particularly minors, from potential harm. Direct messages currently use standard encryption similar to Gmail, with access restricted to authorized employees only under specific circumstances, including valid law enforcement requests or reports of harmful behavior. This approach contrasts with major messaging platforms like Signal, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Apple Messages, and Google Messages, which employ end-to-end encryption as their default technology.

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