The FBI and CISA have issued warnings urging Americans to use encrypted communication methods following ongoing cyberattacks by the Chinese hacking group Salt Typhoon.
While messaging between iPhones or Androids is secure on their respective platforms, cross-platform texts between iPhone and Android lack encryption, making them vulnerable to interception.
As part of the effort to protect sensitive information, the agencies recommend using fully encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Facebook Messenger for cross-platform communication.
RCS, the successor to SMS, does not yet offer end-to-end encryption across devices, leaving it open to risks until a solution is implemented.
The FBI also advises regular updates to your device’s operating system and using multi-factor authentication (MFA) to secure accounts.
The warning highlights the need for stronger network security amid growing concerns over compromised private communications, particularly those of government or political figures.
