Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne recently made a bold move to strengthen the security of government communications. She ordered the installation of Olvid secure messaging on the devices of all members of the government. This decision was taken with the aim of managing sensitive information more securely and protecting data.
Olvid, a French instant messaging application, was chosen because of its reputation for being extremely secure. Designed in 2019 by Thomas Baignères and Matthieu Finiasz, two French cybersecurity experts, Olvid received a "Certification de sécurité de premier niveau" from the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d'information (ANSSI) in 2020.
From December 8, 2023, ministers, secretaries of state, directors and cabinet members must no longer use conventional messaging applications, such as WhatsApp, Telegram or Signal, on their cell phones or computers. Instead, they must use Olvid. This initiative marks a milestone in the management of sensitive information and data protection within the government.
But what should you use in your business?
End-to-end cryptography: Complete protection
Visit end-to-end cryptography is a security mechanism which ensures that only the sender and recipient of a message can read it, by encrypting the data so that it can only be decrypted by the intended recipient.. Unlike traditional encryption systems, where data can be decrypted at various points along the way, end-to-end cryptography ensures that even messaging service providers cannot access message content.
Examples of Encrypted Messaging Applications
- Signal : Signal is widely recognized as one of the most secure messaging applications available. It uses end-to-end cryptography for all messages, voice and video calls, guaranteeing total confidentiality of communications. Even metadata is minimized to reduce the amount of information that can be exploited.
- WhatsApp: Facebook-owned WhatsApp also offers end-to-end encryption for all communications. However, it should be noted that some features, such as chat backups in the cloud, may not be end-to-end encrypted, which can be a point of vulnerability.
- Telegram: Telegram offers a variety of security features, including secret chats that use end-to-end encryption. However, it's important to note that not all chats on Telegram are automatically end-to-end encrypted, requiring specific use of secret chats for maximum security.
Olvid, the French, sovereign and secure player
Olvid is an instant messaging application that prides itself on being the most secure in the world. It was created in 2019 and received a "Certification de sécurité de premier niveau" by the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d'information (ANSSI) in September 2020.
Olvid safety is based on three key principles:
- User authentication : Olvid guarantees user authentication, which means you can be sure of the identity of the person you're communicating with.
- End-to-end encryption : Olvid uses end-to-end encryption algorithms to protect user data. This means that only users involved in a conversation can read the messages exchanged.
- No centralized user directory : Unlike many other messaging applications, Olvid does not store user information on servers. This eliminates a potential point of vulnerability and reinforces the confidentiality of conversation metadata.
In terms of operating mechanism, Olvid uses a series of cryptographic protocols to ensure security. For example, it usesAES 256 algorithm in CTR mode for encryption. In addition, Olvid uses cryptographic keys, including symmetric keyspublic and private keys, to secure communications. In addition, Olvid also uses Edwards curves for signature key generation and authentication.
It's important to note that Olvid's security relies not only on the cryptographic protocols implemented in the cryptographic engine, but also on the actual connection/relationship and trust between users. It assumes no trusted third party.
What's the right choice between convenience and safety?
The choice between convenience and security depends on the individual preferences of each user. Some may prefer convenience and accessibility of functionality, while others may opt for enhanced protection of their personal data. Ideally, messaging applications should offer a balance between these two aspects, providing practical functionality while guaranteeing maximum security of communications.
In business, it's important to ask yourself how critical the exchanges you have with your colleagues are. If it's difficult for you to judge, it's a good idea to turn to players like Phishia, who can help you choose secure messaging applications tailored to your needs.
