Messenger is one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 1 billion monthly active users. It allows users to easily communicate via text, voice, video calls and more. Video calling on Messenger provides a convenient way to visually connect with friends and family. However, it also raises questions around privacy and security. In this article, we’ll examine the safety of video calls on Messenger by looking at encryption, data collection and other factors.
Is Messenger video call encrypted?
Encryption is one of the main ways Messenger protects the privacy of video calls. Here are the key facts about encryption and Messenger video calls:
- Messenger uses end-to-end encryption for one-on-one video calls. This means the video call content is encrypted on the sender’s device and decrypted on the receiver’s device. Facebook cannot access the contents of the call.
- Group video calls do not use end-to-end encryption. The contents of the call are accessible to Facebook.
- Secret conversations on Messenger offer end-to-end encryption for both one-on-one text chats and video calls. However, this feature is opt-in and not the default.
- Messenger uses the Signal protocol for end-to-end encrypted video calls. This is an open source protocol regarded by experts as secure when implemented correctly.
So in summary, one-on-one Messenger video calls are encrypted by default which provides a good level of privacy. But group calls are not encrypted so may be more vulnerable.
Does Facebook collect data from Messenger video calls?
Facebook states it does not view or listen to your private conversations on Messenger. However, some data is collected:
- Metadata like who you are communicating with, when and for how long is collected. This does not include audio or video content.
- If Opt-in connected experiences are enabled, additional analytics data may be collected to improve services. You can disable this in settings.
- Facebook may access your contacts stored on your device to make suggestions and improve ads.
So Facebook collects some analytics data around Messenger usage and contacts data if you allow it. But claims not to eavesdrop on video call contents.
Are Messenger video calls vulnerable to hacking?
There are a few ways an unauthorized person could attempt to access a Messenger video call:
- Hacking one of the user accounts. Enable two-factor authentication to make this harder.
- Intercepting the internet traffic if on an open WiFi network. Use a VPN to encrypt traffic.
- Taking remote control of a device via malware. Keep devices updated and use security software.
- Accessing an unencrypted group video call through Facebook’s servers. Use Secret Conversations where possible.
So hackers gaining access to video calls is possible but unlikely, especially for one-on-one calls. Good security practices can further reduce risks.
How does Messenger video call quality compare?
Messenger uses Facebook’s Real Time Media Protocol (RTMP) to handle video calls. Here’s how it compares to alternatives:
| Service | Video Quality | Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| Messenger | Good | Moderate – some lagging and pixellation |
| Excellent | Very reliable | |
| FaceTime | Excellent | Very reliable |
| Skype | Good | Moderate – some call dropping |
While the video quality on Messenger is quite good, services like WhatsApp and FaceTime tend to be more reliable with less lagging. But overall Messenger provides decent quality for most use cases.
Does Messenger have safety features for video calls?
Messenger provides a few features to help keep video calls safe and appropriate:
- Blocking – Prevent specific people from calling you.
- Reporting – Flag inappropriate content to Facebook during a call.
- Disabling video – Continue the call without the video component.
- Ending calls – Leave the call immediately at any time.
While somewhat limited, these tools do allow you to manage troublesome video call experiences. More robust parental controls are available on Facebook’s child-focused Messenger Kids app.
Conclusion
Messenger enables convenient video calling integrated with a hugely popular messaging platform. Facebook employs end-to-end encryption and states it avoids accessing call contents. Data collection is limited to metadata used to improve the product experience.
The main privacy limitation is potentially unencrypted group video calls. Additionally, calls could be intercepted by hackers through account access or network eavesdropping. Proper security precautions can mitigate most risks. Video quality is quite good though lagging is sometimes an issue. Safety features to manage harassment are relatively basic.
Overall, Messenger provides a solid video calling experience with reasonable privacy protections. While not completely foolproof, it meets the needs of most casual users. Those dealing with highly sensitive conversations may prefer more locked-down apps like Signal or FaceTime. But for the average Messenger user, video calls likely pose little substantial risk.