Encrypt Facebook Messages: Using Secret Conversation Mode

Despite its benefits, the system has certain limitations. Currently, it is exclusively available through the Facebook Messenger app and is not accessible on the desktop version of Facebook.

Furthermore, while enabled by default on some devices, encryption isn't automatic. Users must initiate a secret conversation to activate the encryption feature. In the current digital landscape, robust encryption should be standard practice. Compatibility is also a factor; if a contact is using an outdated Messenger version, encryption cannot be utilized with them. It also doesn't extend to group chats, as it operates on a device-to-device basis and doesn't currently support multi-user encryption, nor is this functionality planned for the near future.

Additionally, the feature does not support video, voice calls, or GIF files, likely due to the significant processing overhead required for encrypting these larger file types. However, image sharing within the encrypted chat is permitted. A key distinction is that, due to device-specific encryption keys, conversations cannot be seamlessly transferred between devices like a phone and a tablet. The device used to start a Secret Conversation is the only device on which it can be continued.

Nevertheless, the inclusion of secure, proper end-to-end encryption within Facebook Messenger represents a substantial enhancement—one that all users should consider utilizing. Considering the numerous data breaches in recent years revealing widespread surveillance of digital communications, enabling encryption wherever possible offers a valuable layer of protection.

Utilizing Secret Conversations on Facebook Messenger

Having reviewed the capabilities and limitations of Secret Conversations, let's proceed with a guide on how to use this feature, encompassing the creation of new messages, setting self-destruct timers, and the option to erase all your secret conversations simultaneously.

Choosing Your Primary Device

As previously noted, this functionality is restricted to a single device, which must be used for all encrypted communications. If you exclusively use Facebook Messenger on your mobile phone, you can proceed directly to the subsequent section.

However, if you have the application installed on multiple devices – such as an iPhone, an iPad, and an iPod Touch used for casual browsing – you must designate one as the primary device for encrypted messaging.

By default, the initial device updated to the newest version of Facebook Messenger will be designated as such. Should you need to change this, simply open Facebook Messenger on your desired device and tap the profile icon, often represented by a silhouette, in the bottom corner.

Navigate down the menu until you locate the "Secret Conversations" settings option and select it.

Verify that the "Secret Conversations" toggle is enabled.

Further action on other devices is unnecessary; activating the feature on your primary device will automatically disable it on all others.

Initiating a New Secret Conversation

There are two methods for starting a Secret Conversation: either begin a new one or convert an existing conversation. To initiate a new encrypted chat with a friend, tap the compose icon at the top of Messenger’s main screen.

Select "Secret" from the upper right corner of the screen.

After selecting "Secret," choose the friend you wish to message on the subsequent page, and the encrypted conversation will begin. For example, we’ll select Matt from How-To Geek:

The prominent "Secret Conversation" label and black lock icon confirm that the conversation is now encrypted. You can then use Messenger as usual.

Converting an Existing Conversation to a Secret Conversation

If you are already engaged in a chat with someone and wish to encrypt it, that is a straightforward process. This is often preferable when communicating frequently with individuals you want to securely connect with.

To do so, open the existing message thread and tap on the contact’s name in the top navigation bar.

Within the contact menu, select "Secret Conversation," located approximately halfway down the screen.

The conversation will then be converted to a "Secret Conversation," allowing you to exchange messages securely.

In "Secret Conversation" mode, text bubbles appear black, unlike the standard blue bubbles in regular conversations.

It’s important to note that converting an existing chat to a Secret Conversation does not retroactively encrypt previous messages. Instead, it creates a separate, new encrypted chat alongside the original, non-encrypted conversation.

As illustrated in the screenshot, starting a Secret Conversation with Matt results in two separate conversations listed in Messenger.

Activating Self-Destructing Messages

Secret Conversations offer a unique feature inspired by Snapchat: self-destructing messages. The process of sending messages remains consistent, but this addition provides an extra layer of privacy.

To enable this feature, tap the clock icon located on the right side of the chat box when composing a message.

Tapping the clock icon allows you to select a duration for the message to remain visible after being viewed, ranging from 5 seconds to 1 day.

The chat box will indicate the expiry time in red, and the clock icon will be filled in. A countdown timer will also appear next to the sent message once it has been viewed.

The selected expiration time will apply to all subsequent messages unless you tap the clock icon again and select "Off" to disable the feature.

Verifying the Security of Your Secret Conversation

This step is optional but can provide reassurance. You can compare the device keys used by your device and your contact’s device.

Click on

Here, you will find both your device key and your contact’s device key, displayed as a long hexadecimal string. These keys are specific to your physical device, not your Facebook account. Changing devices will generate a new key.

Your key should appear as your contact’s key on their device, and vice versa. Comparing these keys in a secure manner can confirm secure communication. However, this step is not essential for using Secret Conversation mode.

Deleting Secret Conversations

You may wish to delete some or all of your Secret Conversations. You can do this individually or all at once.

To delete a specific conversation, tap on the chat partner’s name (as done to check the Device Keys) and select "Delete Conversation."

Alternatively, to remove all Secret Conversations, return to the "Secret Conversations" menu (Me > Secret Conversations) and select "Delete Secret Conversations."

Confirming this action will permanently delete all Secret Conversations on your device.

These steps outline the complete process of utilizing Secret Conversations, along with a deeper understanding of its functionality. You can now confidently enjoy encrypted messaging with your Facebook Messenger contacts.