(Image source from: gadgets.ndtv.com)
Google is coming up with an upgradation that might turn out flexible for android users.
On Thursday, Google declared that it would be rolling out end-to-end encryption for Android users. This would be encrypted in such a way that it would get tough for anyone, including the law enforcement to read content of messages.
"End-to-end encryption ensures that no one, including Google and third parties, can read the content of your messages as they travel between your phone and the phone of the person you're messaging," said Google product lead Drew Rowny while announcing the rollout.
Google's next step is to upgrade from SMS to the Rich Communication Services (RCS) standard. This would mean providing extra features to images and videos.People using android-powered devices can avail this.
This way, Google’s messaging application would get additional privacy and security.This initiative comes right after law agencies around the world have complained that strong encryption may lead to criminals hiding their tracks.
Even digital rights activists have always stood up for strong encryption to allow users to avoid enquiry from governments and cyber criminals. However, some governments have notified that technology could hinder criminal investigations.
On services such as Facebook-owned Whatsapp,end-to-end encryption is already available.However, the company is being opposed to bring full encryption to its messenger app.
Last year, US Attorney General William Barr joined with British and Australian counterparts in requesting Facebook to give up its encryption, stating that the plan court hurt investigations into child exploitation.
On the other hand, civil liberties groups opposed this and said that this could hurt the privacy and security of all internet users and with a lack of encryption or privileged access for law enforcement, several problems would arise.
By Neha Makhija
