WhatsApp vs Threema: Is Privacy Better in the EU?
Explore how Switzerland's Threema safeguards conversations with minimal data collection compared to the US-based WhatsApp. Discover which app truly respects your privacy.
Should You Switch to Threema?
Enhanced privacy, anonymous registration, Swiss data storage
No video calling, no web access, smaller user base
Switch if privacy is key; stay if you need video calls or web access
At a Glance
US data laws
GDPR protected
Contact
Threema
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Privacy & Compliance Comparison
Critical data sovereignty factors at a glance
| Criteria | Threema | |
|---|---|---|
Server Location | US (Meta data centers), EU (optional) | CH (Switzerland) |
GDPR Compliance | Partial (SCCs) | Full |
Open Source | ||
E2E Encryption | All plans | |
Data Portability | Partial | Full export |
CLOUD Act Notice
WhatsApp is a US company and must comply with CLOUD Act data requests, even for data stored in EU data centers. Threema is not subject to US jurisdiction.
Meta
Threema
🇨🇭Threema
US Data Storage
Data subject to US CLOUD Act and may be accessed by US authorities
EU Data Protection
Data protected under GDPR with EU-only data residency
Certifications & Compliance
No certifications listed
Reasons to Switch
- ✓Anonymous registration; no phone number needed
- ✓Data stored on Swiss servers; strong privacy laws
- ✓Self-destructing messages enhance security
- ✓Open source; transparency in code and security
Things to Consider
- !Migration pain; contacts may not be on Threema
- !No WhatsApp Web equivalent for desktop use
- !Learning curve; different interface and features
Migration Overview
Depends on data size and complexity
Quick Steps
Create Threema account and configure settings
Export and prepare data from WhatsApp
Import data, test integrations, and migrate users
Other alternatives to WhatsApp
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Ready to make the switch?
Start using Threema today and take control of your data privacy.