Session: The encrypted messenger that asks for nothing
The other day, I found myself in a conversation about cybersecurity with Simon Anderson. As we explored the landscape of secure messaging apps, Simon offered a surprisingly insightful ranking of popular platforms:
WhatsApp: sheep
Telegram: dissidents
Signal: security concerned
Session: security informed
That last one caught my attention - Session. I had never used it. Naturally, curiosity took over, and I dove into researching the app. What I discovered was intriguing enough that I headed straight to getsession.org to download the client.
First impressions: Anonymous by design
From the moment I opened Session, it was clear this wasn’t just another encrypted messaging app. There was no request for a phone number, no email, and certainly no identity verification. So no linking to a device’s IMEI - I usually get around that by using virtual phone numbers - absolutely no phone number, apart from banking is linked to any devices I own. For someone who has grown increasingly wary of surveillance (yes, I’ll admit I’m more than a little paranoid), this was refreshing.
My skepticism isn’t unfounded. Stories of compromised platforms like ANOM and Wickr still echo in the community. So, when a new app promises true anonymity and end-to-end encryption, I approach with caution - but also curiosity.
What makes session stand out
Session’s mission is clear: to provide private communication without surveillance or data collection. Here are some of the standout features highlighted on their site and backed up by my experience:
No Phone Numbers or Emails: You don’t need to disclose any personal details. Accounts are entirely anonymous.
No Data to Leak: Session collects no metadata - so in the event of a breach, there’s nothing to steal.
Onion Routing Network: Messages are relayed through a privacy-focused network, leaving no digital footprints.
Open Source: The code is publicly available, transparent, and auditable.
Censorship Resistance: With no central server, it’s much harder for authorities or bad actors to take Session down.
Features that matter
Session doesn’t just focus on security - it delivers essential functionality as well:
Group Chats: Encrypted group messaging for up to 100 users, with options to create larger communities.
Voice Messages: For when you need to send something more personal.
File Sharing: Securely send attachments without risking leaks.
My verdict
After just a short time using it, I’ve already made Session my primary messaging client. Its balance of usability, security, and principled design makes it a clear winner for anyone serious about private communication.
If you value your privacy and want to break free from surveillance-heavy platforms, Session is worth the switch.
And if you're not already following Simon, you can find him here on Substack Simon Anderson or on X @SimonRAnderson
For my paid Substack subscribers, my Session ID is shared below — feel free to connect securely.
