Instagram introduces encrypted private messages for users from Ukraine and Russia

Technology companies support the people of Ukraine in various ways in this ongoing conflict. This time, Meta decided to introduce encrypted private messages in the Instagram application, not only for Ukrainian citizens, but also for Russians who oppose the ongoing war.

Encrypted private messages for users from Ukraine and Russia

While Meta’s Messenger and WhatsApp already offer encrypted private messages, Instagram doesn’t. And although the above-mentioned messengers are certainly more popular, some people also contact via Instagram, and it is mainly about creators or activists. Anyway, Nick Clegg, president of Meta’s global affairs, emphasized this in the press release regarding the implemented news:

Prominent Russian writers, activists and musicians use Facebook and Instagram to access information and speak out against the invasion. We want them to continue to do so. And we also want people in Russia to continue to hear news from President Zelensky and others in Ukraine.

The default end-to-end encryption is expected to appear for all Instagram users in 2023, but now residents of Russia and Ukraine can use it. They will be notified directly in the initiated conversation about the possibility of enabling encryption. It is also worth remembering that this is not the only convenience that Meta has introduced recently. Recently, Facebook users from Ukraine have been given the opportunity to block their profile, which is to ensure greater security on the Internet at this difficult time.