Olvid

Article summary

Olvid is a French-developed encrypted instant messenger app (IM) that is free and open-source. It does not store or collect any person-related data, like phone numbers. The instant messaging function includes sending text, voice notes, images, videos, and other files. Communication may be one-to-one between users or may involve group messaging. It is similar in function to WhatsApp, Signal app and Telegram app. The decentralized database model of Olvid differentiates it from other IMs which use a central directory to establish secure channels. Olvid collects no personal data such as phone number, name, or email. The risk of a significant hack of the database is reduced because of its decentralization. Founder Cédric Sylvestre claimed in 2020 that Olvid's cybersecurity model was "much more reliable than external storage via servers." The architecture eliminates the risk of backdoor access.

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