Tech Desk 
Dec 04, 2024
An undated image of FBI. — iStock
To ensure a safe and secure messaging experience for smartphone users, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have urged Americans to stop sending text messages between iPhones and Android devices.
The two security agencies also suggested citizens opt for end-to-end encrypted apps for messaging.
The warning was issued in view of a notorious cybercriminal group called Salt Typhoon targetting users on a massive scale.
As noted by The Express Tribune, the hacker group is associated with China's ministry of public affairs.
“Use your encrypted communications where you have it,” said CISA’s Jeff Greene while addressing a presser.
The CISA official said encrypted communications serve as a firm defence against rising cyber threats, highlighting that encrypted data remains undeciphered even if it falls prey to any breach.
The issue reportedly stemmed from unencrypted messaging in Rich Communication Services (RCS).
Cybersecurity experts warn that although messages sent between iPhones via iMessage or between Android devices using Google Messages are encrypted, the two platforms can still be compromised by hackers.
