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US-based service - Your data may be subject to US CLOUD Act and accessed by US authorities

WhatsApp logo

WhatsApp

🇺🇸US Company

by Meta

WhatsApp is a messaging application developed by Meta, based in the United States, that facilitates communication through text, voice, and video. It allows users to engage in individual or group chats, supporting up to 256 participants per group. The app is equipped with features such as voice and video calling, document sharing up to 100 MB, and multimedia status updates. Users can also access WhatsApp on their desktop through WhatsApp Web and share their location in real-time. A key aspect of WhatsApp is its end-to-end encryption, which extends to backups, ensuring that conversations remain private. Customizable chat wallpapers allow for a personalized user experience. WhatsApp is widely used by individuals seeking a versatile communication tool, including friends, families, and businesses. It operates under a free-to-use model, with no subscription fees. However, it is important to note that user data is stored in the United States and is subject to US data laws, such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702, which may have implications for data privacy.

EU Alternatives to WhatsApp

3 privacy-focused, GDPR-compliant alternatives

Threema logo

Threema

🇨🇭

by Threema

The secure instant messenger from Switzerland. GDPR-compliant messaging for individuals and organizations that value security and data protection.

GDPR CompliantEU-BasedISO 27001Open SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Anonymous registration; no phone number needed
  • Data stored on Swiss servers; strong privacy laws
  • Self-destructing messages enhance security

Consider

  • Migration pain; contacts may not be on Threema
  • No WhatsApp Web equivalent for desktop use
Element logo

by Element

Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.

Open SourceSelf-HostableISO 27001EU-hostedGDPR Compliant
freemiumMigration:1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Matrix protocol allows cross-app communication
  • Group chats support up to 1000 members
  • Self-hosting for full data control

Consider

  • Migration from WhatsApp can be complex
  • Fewer users compared to WhatsApp's large base
Wire logo

Wire

🇨🇭

by Wire

Collaborate without compromise with Wire, the trusted platform for millions worldwide. Stay in control with end-to-end encryption that's invisible, flexible collaboration, and intuitive user interface. Join now for free and boost your productivity.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards
  • Self-hosting option for full data control
  • Open source code for transparency and trust

Consider

  • Migration from WhatsApp can be time-consuming
  • Wire lacks WhatsApp's status update feature

Why switch from WhatsApp?

US CLOUD Act

US authorities can access your data stored by US companies, even if stored in Europe.

Privacy Concerns

US companies may collect and use your data in ways not compliant with EU standards.

EU Alternatives

EU-based services must comply with GDPR, giving you stronger privacy protections.

Other Messaging Apps you might want to replace

Ready to switch to a privacy-focused alternative?

Protect your data by moving to an EU-based service. Our migration guides make switching easy.