FBI and CISA Recommend Encrypted Messaging: What It Means for You

Why This Recommendation Matters Now

The timing of the FBI and CISA’s joint advisory is no coincidence. It follows the exposure of a sophisticated cyber-intrusion operation, which involved the compromise of major U.S. telecom networks and the real-time interception of unencrypted voice calls and text messages. These breaches revealed not only the vulnerability of outdated communication protocols like SMS and MMS, but also the ease with which foreign threat actors could harvest sensitive data without detection. The campaign targeted both corporate and governmental communications, demonstrating that legacy systems are no longer capable of offering basic security in a high-risk digital landscape.

What makes this advisory different from past statements is its clarity. Rather than vaguely warning about threats, the agencies explicitly encourage users to adopt messaging platforms with built-in encryption capabilities. Their message is direct: if your calls and texts aren’t end-to-end encrypted, they’re vulnerable to compromise.

The Problem with SMS, MMS, and Cross-Platform Messaging

Standard text messaging systems like SMS and MMS do not offer any form of encryption. These messages travel through carrier networks in plain text, meaning that anyone with access to those systems—either through a breach or internal cooperation—can read them. Even cross-platform messaging between iPhones and Android devices often falls back to SMS or MMS when using default apps, creating invisible security gaps.

The most concerning aspect is that this isn’t a hypothetical issue. Cyberattacks targeting telecommunications have already demonstrated that unencrypted messages can be intercepted in real time. In other words, anyone still using unencrypted methods is essentially transmitting their private information in the open.

What the FBI and CISA Are Recommending

Federal cybersecurity officials are urging both the public and private sectors to move toward secure communication platforms that use end-to-end encryption. This means adopting messaging apps that encrypt data on the sender’s device and decrypt it only on the recipient’s device, with no readable copies stored in the cloud or by the app provider.

In addition to encrypted messaging, the agencies recommend using encrypted voice and video calling, especially when discussing sensitive information. Modern secure messaging apps offer both, often with additional features like disappearing messages, forward secrecy, and anonymous registration.

Users are also encouraged to keep their devices up to date, as many attacks exploit outdated software or firmware. Mobile operating systems that are no longer supported with security patches present a huge risk. Using hardware-based multi-factor authentication—rather than SMS-based codes—is also now considered a baseline requirement for digital hygiene.

Who Should Be Paying Attention

While the initial target of these recommendations may have been high-profile individuals such as government employees, corporate executives, and journalists, the underlying message applies to everyone. In today’s interconnected digital world, even seemingly harmless conversations can be used to map social networks, identify patterns, or exploit vulnerabilities.

The average user might assume they are not interesting enough to be a target. However, threat actors often target everyday people in phishing campaigns, identity theft schemes, or as entry points into more valuable networks. If your device is compromised, it may be used to spy on someone else or serve as a gateway to larger infrastructure.

What You Can Do Right Now

The good news is that implementing secure communication is not difficult. The first step is to replace default messaging with a secure, encrypted app. These apps ensure that only the intended recipients can read your messages—no carriers, governments, or even the app developers can access the content.

Also, make it a habit to use encrypted voice and video calling instead of standard mobile calls when possible. Many secure messaging apps allow you to do this over Wi-Fi or mobile data without additional costs.

Keep your phone’s operating system and apps updated regularly to patch known vulnerabilities. Avoid using older devices that no longer receive security updates. Where possible, use hardware security keys or authentication apps instead of SMS-based two-factor codes.

Lastly, if you communicate across devices—such as between Android and iPhone—be aware that not all services maintain encryption when crossing platforms. Choose apps that offer encryption regardless of device type or operating system.

A Major Policy Shift on Encryption

This recommendation marks a notable change in tone from previous years, when some law enforcement agencies lobbied for “back doors” in encryption systems to allow access for investigations. The FBI and CISA now appear to be acknowledging that strong, uncompromised encryption is essential not just for personal privacy but for national security.

This pivot reflects a broader realization: the threats posed by foreign cyber actors are too advanced to be countered with outdated or intentionally weakened systems. The agencies are effectively saying that secure communication tools must be embraced rather than hindered. This new posture may also influence future legislation and industry standards in favor of stronger digital protections for all users.

The Bigger Picture: Privacy as a Civic Duty

While it’s easy to dismiss encryption as a tool for activists, journalists, or political dissidents, the truth is that privacy should be treated as a universal right. In a data-driven world, secure communication is foundational to trust—between individuals, businesses, and governments. It’s not just about keeping secrets; it’s about ensuring that your personal, financial, and professional life isn’t vulnerable to misuse or manipulation.

The FBI and CISA’s recommendation serves as a wake-up call. If even the highest levels of government are urging secure messaging, that should be enough for the rest of us to take notice. With tools now readily available to anyone with a smartphone, the responsibility—and the power—to protect our communication is in our hands.

The digital world is evolving rapidly, and with it, the methods used to compromise our data and communications. The FBI and CISA’s clear endorsement of encrypted messaging marks a crucial moment in the ongoing battle between convenience and security. The takeaway is simple but powerful: use secure apps, stay updated, and take ownership of your privacy. Because in 2025, privacy isn’t just a preference—it’s a necessity.