Archive · 8 Jun 2025
XChat Upgrade Raises User Privacy Concerns
Elon Musk, the owner of X (formerly Twitter), added a new chat feature called XChat.
This feature lets people send direct messages that are supposed to be secret.
However, experts worry that X might be able to read these messages, unlike other chat apps.
This is because X stores a key that can unlock your messages.
Also, XChat doesn't currently protect against hackers who could try to read your messages.
The new system uses 'bitcoin-style encryption' but could be more of a marketing term than a true security measure.
So, while it offers new ways to chat, the new system comes with possible risks.
X is rolling out a new direct messaging feature, XChat, with encryption.
Elon Musk claims the XChat is using "bitcoin-style" encryption.
Experts have concerns regarding the security of XChat's encryption.
XChat stores user's private keys on its servers.
X admits XChat does not yet protect against "man-in-the-middle" attacks.
- Who
- Elon Musk and X users
- What
- XChat direct messaging feature rollout
- When
- Ongoing
- Where
- X (formerly Twitter)
- Why
- To provide users with encrypted messaging, file sharing, and calls.
Privacy Advocates
X and Elon Musk
Encryption and Security
Privacy Advocates
Experts are concerned that X's encryption might not be as secure as advertised, raising privacy concerns.
X and Elon Musk
X claims the new feature provides secure communication, and offers users file sharing and calls.
Features vs Security
Privacy Advocates
The focus on new features overshadows potential risks of not protecting users against the man-in-the-middle attack
X and Elon Musk
XChat's feature of vanishing messages, sharing files and making calls, gives the user enhanced functionality
- Platform
- X (formerly Twitter)
- Features
- Encrypted messaging, file sharing, audio and video calls.
- Encryption Method
- Bitcoin-style encryption
- Key Storage
- X stores users private keys.
- Security Vulnerabilities
- Not yet protected against "man-in-the-middle" attacks