What is Torchat?
Torchat is a free, open-source peer-to-peer instant messaging application with a strong focus on privacy and security. It allows users to communicate securely through end-to-end encryption, meaning messages can only be read by the recipient and not by third parties including the service provider itself.
Some key features of Torchat include:
- Decentralized network architecture - No central servers are used, communications occur directly between users
- Open-source code that can be audited and verified by independent experts
- End-to-end encryption using the Axolotl ratchet protocol to secure messages
- Self-destructing messages - Users can set a time limit after which messages will be automatically deleted
- No retention of user data on servers
- Works across platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android
By using peer-to-peer infrastructure and building encryption into the application itself, Torchat aims to create a chat platform that protects user privacy against mass surveillance. The open-source codebase allows transparency and security auditing by the community. Overall it is focused on providing secure instant messaging without compromises on privacy.