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WhatsApp replaced by Olvid, the French messaging app, within the government

Government members urged to adopt French messaging app Olvid by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne on November 22, 2023.

State-of-the-art French messaging platform Olvid takes over as primary messaging service for the...
State-of-the-art French messaging platform Olvid takes over as primary messaging service for the government.

WhatsApp replaced by Olvid, the French messaging app, within the government

In the world of digital communication, privacy and security are paramount concerns. One app that has been making waves in this domain is Olvid, a messaging app developed by two cryptography doctors in 2019.

Olvid prides itself on being the most secure instant messaging app in the world. It offers an end-to-end encrypted messaging system, ensuring that all communications between users remain private and secure. This encryption is reinforced with top-level security algorithms, ensuring that no unauthorised parties can access your conversations.

One of the unique features of Olvid is its commitment to user privacy. The app does not create any centralized user directory, does not collect IP addresses, nor connection data. Furthermore, no personal data is required for registration, and there is no contact data in the application. This means that users' identities and communications remain anonymous, adding an extra layer of security.

However, using Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud does pose some uncertainties. The Cloud Act, an American law, requires American companies to provide all electronic data of their users to the American government in the course of a judicial investigation. This raises questions about the potential risks of data access by American authorities.

Despite these concerns, Olvid's user base continues to grow. The app's security has been attested to by the ANSSI, the French National Cybersecurity Agency, which awarded Olvid the First-Level Security Certification Label (CSPN) in 2020. This certification is a testament to the app's robust security measures.

The French government has also shown support for Olvid. In a move to enhance digital security within its borders, the government has asked its members to remove all unapproved messaging apps by December 8th and install Olvid instead.

The future of Olvid depends on its ability to meet challenges and maintain the trust of its users. With its commitment to privacy and security, Olvid is well-positioned to continue its growth and become a leading player in the digital communication landscape.

One final note: users must verify the identity of their correspondents on Olvid using a QR code. This ensures that only known contacts can communicate, adding an extra layer of security to the app.

In a world where privacy and security are increasingly important, Olvid stands out as a beacon of digital safety. With its strong security measures, commitment to privacy, and support from the French government, Olvid is poised to become a trusted choice for secure communication.

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