TikTok won’t add end-to-end encryption to direct messages, report says

In Brief Posted: 7:15 AM PST · March 4, 2026 Image Credits:Editorial RF (opens in a new window) / Getty Images Aisha Malik TikTok won’t add end-to-end encryption to direct messages, report says TikTok will not introduce end-to-end encryption for direct messages (DMs) on its platform, according to a new report from the BBC. The social media giant says end-to-end encryption would make users less safe, as it believes the technology would prevent police and safety teams from accessing messages when necessary. TikTok told the outlet that this is a deliberate decision to distinguish itself from rivals and protect users, particularly younger ones, from harm. With end-to-end encryption, only the sender and recipient of a direct message can view its contents. The company said direct messages are still protected with standard encryption, similar to services like Gmail. Only authorized employees can access direct messages, and only under specific circumstances, such as in response to a valid law enforcement request or a user report of harmful behavior. End-to-end encryption is the default technology used in popular apps like Signal, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger (for 1:1 personal chats and calls), Apple’s Messages, and Google Messages. Topics Apps, Apps, Social, TikTok June 9 Boston, MA Actively scaling? Fundraising? Planning your next launch?TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 delivers tactical playbooks and direct access to 1,000+ founders and investors who are building, backing, and closing.Register by March 13 to save up to $300. REGISTER NOW Newsletters See More Subscribe for the industry’s biggest tech news TechCrunch Daily News Every weekday and Sunday, you can get the best of TechCrunch’s coverage. TechCrunch Mobility TechCrunch Mobility is your destination for transportation news and insight.

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