Secure messaging app for activists, journalists, and those at risk of persecution, offering peer-to-peer encrypted communication without central server reliance
Briar is a free, open source peer-to-peer messaging app designed for activists, journalists, whistleblowers, and anyone who needs a secure and private means of communication. It provides encrypted messaging, forums, and blogs without relying on a central server which could be monitored or blocked.
Briar forms connections only between trusted friends and acquaintances in a peer-to-peer 'darknet', keeping communications confined to groups of people who already know one another. All messages are end-to-end encrypted as they travel over the Tor network, which hides the physical locations of each user. This prevents surveillance or censorship of Briar users.
The app is most useful to people under oppressive regimes where other messaging apps may be blocked, as well as activists, journalists, and marginalized groups who face monitoring or persecution due to the sensitive nature of their communications. Features like encrypted blogs and forums allow sharing information and organizing within trusted circles.
Briar is available on Android, iOS, Windows, MacOS and Linux. It is a free and open source project maintained by nonprofit NGOs. The app prioritizes security, privacy and anonymity above all else.