Google has introduced significant security enhancements to its Messages app for Android users, with a focus on enhancing the security of RCS (Rich Communication Services) chats. These changes have already been implemented and include the following:
- RCS Enabled by Default: Google has enabled RCS messaging by default in the Google Messages app for both new and existing users. This means that RCS will be the default messaging method unless users have explicitly disabled it in the app’s settings.
- End-to-End Encryption for Group Chats: Google has extended end-to-end encryption to group chats in Google Messages. Previously, end-to-end encryption was available for one-on-one chats, but it is now also applied to group conversations. This enhancement aims to provide stronger security for group discussions.
To check if RCS messaging is enabled on your device and to access related settings, you can follow these steps in the Google Messages app:
- Open the Google Messages app.
- Tap on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Select “RCS Chats” from the menu.
- Check if RCS chats are turned on and adjust other related settings as needed.
It’s important to note that end-to-end encryption for RCS chats will only apply when all participants in a chat have RCS messaging enabled and are using Google Messages. If someone in the chat is using a different messaging app or has opted out of RCS, end-to-end encryption may not be in effect for that particular conversation.
