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On Thursday, Meta (formerly Facebook) announced they would test a new feature that allows for secure storage of backups for end-to-end encrypted chats on Messenger. A few users have access to the new Facebook messaging app feature, with plans for a broader release soon.
The feature allows users to create backups of their conversations, which are encrypted and stored on Facebook’s servers. If a user decides to delete their Messenger account, the system will also delete the backups.
The news comes as Facebook is facing increased scrutiny over its handling of user data and its use of end-to-end encryption. As part of an investigation into alleged unlawful abortion, Facebook handed over Messenger chat histories to Nebraska law enforcement. Andy Stone, the head of the independent firm Meta Risk Control, said that the functionality had been in operation for a long time and was not connected to the Nebraska controversy.
Also, at a 2019 summit hosted by the Department of Justice, FBI Director Christopher Wray said that Facebook would be a “dream come true” for criminals and child pornographers.
Facebook has been criticized for not offering end-to-end encryption by default on Messenger and for storing backups of user data in an unencrypted format.
The new feature is an attempt by Facebook to address some of those concerns. Also, Facebook will not be privy to the content of these messages- users can create a PIN, generate code, or use a third-party cloud service if they need to restore their conversations.
In a statement, Meta said:
“We’re always working on ways to make Messenger more secure and private, including end-to-end encryption. We’re testing a new feature that gives people the option to back up their chats in an encrypted format securely.”
According to the release, Meta is making steady progress towards releasing a default end-to-end encryption for personal messages and calls globally in 2023.
In the meantime, the new feature is a good step for those who want to keep their conversations private and secure.
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