10 Best Sneaky Links Apps for Android

In the age of smartphones and instant messaging, staying connected with friends, family, and potential romantic interests has become easier than ever. The concept of “sneaky links” has gained popularity in recent years, referring to discreet or private meetups or conversations. If you’re looking to maintain your privacy while staying connected.

10 Best Sneaky Links Apps for Android

Here are the 10 best sneaky links apps for Android that you should consider.

1. WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a popular instant messaging app that has revolutionized the way people communicate worldwide. Founded in 2009 and acquired by Facebook (now Meta Platforms, Inc.) in 2014, WhatsApp has grown to become one of the most widely used messaging platforms, boasting over 2 billion monthly active users as of my last knowledge update in September 2021.

Key Features of WhatsApp:

Text Messaging: WhatsApp allows users to send text messages, emojis, and stickers to individuals or groups. It offers a user-friendly interface that makes texting easy and enjoyable.
Voice and Video Calls: WhatsApp offers voice and video calling features, allowing users to make high-quality calls over an internet connection, which can be especially useful for international calls.
End-to-End Encryption: WhatsApp is known for its strong emphasis on privacy and security. It employs end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls, which means that only the sender and recipient can read or hear the messages. Even WhatsApp itself cannot access the content of your messages.
Group Chats: You can create group chats with multiple participants, making it easy to stay connected with friends, family, or colleagues.
Media Sharing: WhatsApp allows you to share photos, videos, documents, and voice messages with ease. You can also share your location in real-time with others.
Status Updates: Similar to Stories on other social media platforms, WhatsApp has a “Status” feature where you can share photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours.
WhatsApp Web: You can use WhatsApp on your computer through WhatsApp Web or the standalone desktop app. This is handy for typing messages on a physical keyboard and managing your chats while working on your PC or laptop.
Voice Messages: You can send voice messages to your contacts, which can be a convenient way to communicate when you don’t want to type.
Video and Photo Editing: WhatsApp offers basic photo and video editing features, allowing you to add captions, stickers, and doodles to your media.
Dark Mode: WhatsApp introduced a dark mode feature to reduce eye strain in low-light environments.
Two-Step Verification: You can enable two-step verification for an added layer of security, ensuring that only you can access your WhatsApp account.
WhatsApp Business: WhatsApp Business is a separate app designed for businesses to interact with their customers. It offers features like business profiles, quick replies, and automated messaging.

WhatsApp has played a crucial role in connecting people across the globe, from personal conversations to business communication. However, it’s essential to use it responsibly and be aware of privacy settings, as sharing personal information on any messaging platform should always be done with caution. Additionally, WhatsApp’s features and policies may have evolved since my last update in September 2021, so it’s a good idea to check the latest developments and security measures on their official website or within the app itself.

2. Signal

Signal is a highly regarded and privacy-focused instant messaging app known for its robust encryption and commitment to user data protection. It was created by Open Whisper Systems and gained popularity for its security features, making it a top choice for individuals who value privacy and security in their messaging apps.

Here are some key features and aspects of Signal:

End-to-End Encryption: Signal employs end-to-end encryption for all messages, voice calls, and video calls. This means that only the sender and the recipient can decrypt and read the content of messages, ensuring that even the service provider (Signal itself) cannot access your conversations.
Open Source: Signal is open-source software, which means that its source code is publicly available and can be audited by anyone. This transparency is crucial for security, as it allows experts to review the code for vulnerabilities.
Self-Destructing Messages: Signal allows users to send self-destructing messages that automatically disappear after a set period of time. This feature is great for sending sensitive information that you want to be temporary.
Voice and Video Calls: Signal offers encrypted voice and video calls, similar to other messaging apps. These calls are secured with the same end-to-end encryption as text messages.
Secure Group Chats: You can create private group chats with multiple participants, ensuring that your group conversations remain confidential.
Screen Security: Signal provides an extra layer of security by allowing users to enable a screen lock or biometric authentication (such as fingerprint or facial recognition) for the app.
Discreet Notifications: Signal offers the option to hide message content in notifications, adding an additional layer of privacy when using the app in public.
Safety Number Verification: To verify the security of your conversations, Signal employs a safety number system that allows users to verify that their messages are encrypted and secure. This is an important security feature to ensure you’re communicating with the intended recipient.
No Ads or Tracking: Signal is ad-free and does not track your conversations or collect personal data for targeted advertising.
Cross-Platform: Signal is available on multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it easy to communicate securely across devices.
Signal Foundation: Signal is maintained by the Signal Foundation, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to developing secure communication tools and protecting user privacy.

Signal has gained recognition not only for its security features but also for its commitment to user privacy and its role in championing end-to-end encryption in the messaging app space. It has been endorsed by privacy advocates and security experts and continues to be a top choice for those who want a secure and private messaging experience. Keep in mind that while Signal provides strong security features, it’s essential to use it responsibly and be mindful of privacy settings.

3. Telegram

Telegram is a versatile and widely-used messaging app known for its rich features, speed, and focus on user privacy. It was created by Pavel Durov and his brother Nikolai Durov in 2013 and has since gained a large and dedicated user base.

Here are some key features and aspects of Telegram:

Cloud-Based Messaging: Telegram uses cloud-based technology, which means your messages and media are stored in the cloud. This allows you to access your conversations from multiple devices and ensures that you won’t lose your messages if you switch phones.
End-to-End Encryption: Telegram offers end-to-end encryption as an optional feature called “Secret Chats.” While regular chats are encrypted between your device and Telegram’s servers, Secret Chats employ additional encryption layers for extra privacy.
Security and Self-Destructing Messages: Secret Chats in Telegram allow you to set messages to self-destruct after a specific time, ensuring your conversations remain confidential. You can also prevent screenshots in Secret Chats.
Large Group Chats: Telegram supports large group chats and channels, making it suitable for communities, businesses, and organizations to communicate and share updates.
Stickers and GIFs: Telegram offers a vast library of stickers, GIFs, and emojis that users can use to express themselves in chats.
File Sharing: You can share files of various types, including documents, photos, videos, and more, with your contacts or groups. Telegram provides ample storage space for media.
Customizable Themes: Telegram allows you to personalize the app with custom themes, backgrounds, and chat bubble colors.
Bot Platform: Telegram has an open bot platform that developers can use to create interactive and automated bots for various purposes, from news delivery to productivity tools.
Voice and Video Calls: While Telegram is primarily known for its text messaging capabilities, it also offers voice and video calling features.
Multi-Platform Support: Telegram is available on a wide range of platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and even web browsers, allowing you to use it seamlessly across devices.
Username-Based System: You can set a username in Telegram, which allows others to find and message you without needing your phone number. This feature enhances privacy, as you can share your username instead of your phone number.
Channel Broadcasting: Telegram channels allow for one-way broadcasting to a large audience. This feature is useful for businesses, influencers, and content creators.
Two-Step Verification: You can enable two-step verification for added security, which requires you to enter a password when logging into your Telegram account.
Open Source: The client-side code for Telegram is open source, allowing independent security audits and customization by developers.

Telegram has positioned itself as a secure and feature-rich messaging app, with a particular focus on speed and user-friendly design. It has gained popularity for its dedication to user privacy and the ability to create large groups and channels for various purposes. However, it’s essential to note that while Telegram provides many privacy and security features, some of these features are optional and need to be enabled by users. It’s important to review your privacy settings and choose the level of security that suits your needs.

4. Snapchat

Snapchat is a multimedia messaging app created by Evan Spiegel, Bobby Murphy, and Reggie Brown, which was launched in 2011. It is known for its unique features that make messages and media files disappear after being viewed, creating a sense of ephemeral communication.

Here are some key features and aspects of Snapchat:

Ephemeral Messaging: Snapchat is famous for its disappearing messages and media. When you send a snap (photo or video) to a friend, it can be viewed for a limited time, typically a few seconds, before it vanishes. This feature is great for sharing moments without worrying about them being saved indefinitely.
Stories: Snapchat introduced “Stories,” a feature that allows users to post a series of snaps that can be viewed by their friends for 24 hours. Stories are a way to share updates and moments throughout the day.
Filters and Lenses: Snapchat offers a wide range of filters and augmented reality (AR) lenses that can be applied to photos and videos. These fun and creative features have become a hallmark of Snapchat.
Discover: Discover is a section of Snapchat that features content from publishers, influencers, and celebrities. Users can access news articles, videos, and entertainment content within the app.
Chat: In addition to sending snaps, you can also use Snapchat for text-based messaging. Chat messages can also disappear after being viewed or after a set period of time.
Snap Map: Snap Map allows users to share their location with friends in real-time. It provides a visual map where friends can see each other’s Bitmojis on a map, enhancing social interactions.
Memories: Snapchat’s Memories feature lets you save and organize your favorite snaps and stories, creating a personal archive of your moments.
Stickers and Bitmojis: You can personalize your snaps and messages with a wide array of stickers and Bitmojis (personalized emojis).
Discover Friends: Snapchat has features for discovering friends based on mutual connections and interests, making it easy to connect with new people.
Spectacles: Snapchat introduced Spectacles, sunglasses with a built-in camera that allows users to capture and share snaps from their perspective.
Privacy Controls: Snapchat has settings that allow you to control who can send you snaps, view your stories, and see your location on Snap Map, giving you control over your privacy.
Safety Center: Snapchat has a Safety Center with resources and guidelines for users to stay safe and respectful while using the platform.

Snapchat is particularly popular among younger users and has evolved beyond just a messaging app into a multimedia platform for content creation and sharing. Its emphasis on short-lived content and creative features make it a unique and engaging platform for communication and self-expression. However, it’s important to remember that while snaps may disappear, it’s still possible for recipients to capture screenshots or save messages using third-party apps, so users should exercise caution when sharing sensitive information.

5. Wickr Me

Wickr Me is a secure and privacy-focused messaging app that prioritizes the protection of your conversations and data. Founded in 2012 by Nico Sell and launched in 2013, Wickr Me was designed with a strong emphasis on encryption and self-destructing messages.

Here are some key features and aspects of Wickr Me:

End-to-End Encryption: Wickr Me employs end-to-end encryption for all messages, voice calls, and video calls. This ensures that only the sender and the intended recipient can access the content of the messages.
Self-Destructing Messages: One of Wickr Me’s signature features is the ability to send messages that automatically self-destruct after a specified time, ranging from a few seconds to several days. This ensures that your conversations are temporary and not stored indefinitely.
Secure File Sharing: You can securely send and receive files, photos, videos, and documents within the app. Files sent through Wickr Me are also encrypted, adding an extra layer of security to your media sharing.
Voice and Video Calls: Wickr Me supports encrypted voice and video calls, allowing you to have private conversations without worrying about eavesdropping.
Screenshot Detection: Wickr Me is designed to notify you if a recipient takes a screenshot of your self-destructing messages, adding an additional layer of privacy and security.
Message Recall: You can recall messages that you’ve sent, even after they’ve been read, helping you maintain control over your conversations.
Anonymous Account Creation: Wickr Me allows you to create an account without needing to provide a phone number or email address, enhancing your privacy.
Secure Rooms: Wickr Me lets you create secure chat rooms with multiple participants, ensuring that group conversations are also protected with encryption and self-destructing messages.
No Metadata Storage: Wickr Me claims not to store any metadata about your messages, including message timestamps, sender/receiver identities, or any other identifying information.
Screen Lock: You can set up a screen lock or biometric authentication (such as fingerprint or facial recognition) for added security when opening the app.
Open Source Protocol: Wickr Me uses the Signal Protocol for its encryption, which is an open-source encryption protocol that has been independently audited and proven to be secure.
Cross-Platform: Wickr Me is available on various platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it convenient for users on different devices.

Wickr Me is particularly popular among individuals and organizations that require a high level of privacy and security in their communications. It’s used by professionals in fields like law enforcement, journalism, and cybersecurity, as well as by privacy-conscious individuals who want to ensure their messages are kept confidential. However, it’s important to note that while Wickr Me offers strong security features, user behavior, and device security also play a crucial role in maintaining the privacy of your conversations.

6. CoverMe

CoverMe is a privacy-focused messaging and calling app that’s designed to provide users with a high level of security and confidentiality in their communications. It offers a range of features aimed at safeguarding your conversations and personal information.

Here are some key features and aspects of CoverMe:

End-to-End Encryption: CoverMe uses end-to-end encryption to protect your messages, voice calls, and video calls. This means that only you and the intended recipient can decrypt and read the content of your communications.
Self-Destructing Messages: Similar to other privacy-focused messaging apps, CoverMe allows you to send self-destructing messages that automatically disappear after a predefined period of time, enhancing the privacy of your conversations.
Private Vault: CoverMe includes a private vault for securely storing sensitive photos, videos, and documents. This vault is locked with an additional passcode or fingerprint, ensuring that your private files are kept safe.
Anonymous Texting and Calling: You can make anonymous calls and send anonymous texts without revealing your real phone number. This feature can be useful for maintaining privacy when communicating with strangers or for online transactions.
Burner Phone Numbers: CoverMe offers temporary burner phone numbers that you can use for various purposes, such as online dating, classified ads, or as a secondary contact number.
Private Calling: CoverMe allows you to make secure and private phone calls, protecting your conversations from eavesdropping.
Password Protection: The app can be locked with a password, PIN, or fingerprint, adding an extra layer of security to your messages and files.
Anti-Screenshot and Anti-Screen Recording: CoverMe is designed to detect and prevent screenshots and screen recordings during your conversations, helping to ensure the privacy of your messages.
Message Recall: You can recall or unsend messages if you’ve sent something you want to delete from the recipient’s device.
Secure Group Chats: CoverMe supports encrypted group chats, allowing you to communicate securely with multiple participants.
No Ads: CoverMe is ad-free, eliminating the tracking and data collection associated with many free messaging apps.
Cross-Platform: CoverMe is available on Android and iOS, making it accessible to users on different devices.

CoverMe is primarily aimed at users who prioritize privacy and security in their messaging and calling apps. It’s often used by individuals and professionals who require confidential and secure communication, such as journalists, activists, business executives, and those who need to protect sensitive information. However, as with any privacy-focused app, it’s essential to understand that user behavior and device security also play a role in maintaining the privacy of your communications. Always use these apps responsibly and make sure to configure privacy settings to suit your needs.

7. Viber

Viber is a popular messaging and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) app that allows users to make free voice and video calls, send text messages, and share multimedia content over the internet. It was originally developed by Viber Media and was later acquired by Rakuten Inc. in 2014. Viber has gained a global user base and offers a range of features that make it a versatile communication platform.

Here are some key features and aspects of Viber:

Free Messaging and Calls: Viber enables users to send text messages, make voice calls, and conduct video calls to other Viber users for free, provided both parties have an internet connection.
Voice and Video Calls: Viber offers high-quality voice and video calls, making it a reliable option for both personal and business conversations. You can make international calls at no additional cost, saving on long-distance charges.
Stickers and Emojis: Viber provides a wide selection of stickers, emojis, and GIFs to help users express themselves creatively in chats.
Group Chats: You can create group chats with multiple participants, making it easy to communicate with friends, family, or colleagues. Viber also offers options to manage group chats effectively.
Multimedia Sharing: Viber allows you to share photos, videos, voice messages, and documents with your contacts. This feature makes it suitable for both personal and professional communication.
Secret Chats: Viber offers a secret chat feature that allows users to have encrypted conversations with a self-destruct timer on messages, similar to other privacy-focused messaging apps.
Viber Out: Viber Out is a service that allows users to make calls to non-Viber users, including landline and mobile numbers. This is a paid service, but it often offers competitive international call rates.
Public Chats: Viber features public chats that allow users to follow and interact with celebrities, brands, and public figures. These chats provide a platform for real-time updates and discussions.
Business Features: Viber for Business offers a range of features for businesses, including chatbots, customer support, and advertising options.
Cross-Platform: Viber is available on various platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and even offers a web version, making it accessible from multiple devices.
Viber Communities: Viber Communities allow users to create and manage their own group communities based on interests, hobbies, or affiliations.
Privacy Features: Viber provides options to control who can contact you and see your online status, ensuring you have control over your privacy.

Viber is known for its user-friendly interface and the convenience it offers for both personal and professional communication. While it may not have the same level of emphasis on privacy and encryption as some other messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp, it still provides a secure environment for communication. Users looking for a feature-rich messaging app that also includes voice and video calling capabilities often find Viber to be a reliable choice.

8. Threema

Threema is a privacy-focused messaging app known for its strong commitment to security and user privacy. Developed by Threema GmbH, a Swiss-based company, it offers a range of features designed to protect your data and ensure confidential communication.

Here are some key features and aspects of Threema:

End-to-End Encryption: Threema employs end-to-end encryption for all messages, voice calls, and video calls. This means that only the sender and the recipient can decrypt and access the content of the messages, ensuring privacy and security.
No Phone Number or Email Required: Unlike many other messaging apps, Threema does not require users to provide a phone number or email address to create an account. This enhances anonymity and privacy.
Anonymous User IDs: Threema assigns each user a unique and anonymous ID, eliminating the need for phone numbers or email addresses. This ID is the primary means of identifying and connecting with other users.
Self-Destructing Messages: Threema allows you to send self-destructing messages that automatically disappear after they’ve been read, offering an extra layer of privacy.
Voice and Video Calls: Threema supports voice calls and video calls that are end-to-end encrypted, ensuring secure communication.
Group Chats: You can create encrypted group chats with multiple participants, making it easy to communicate with friends, family, or colleagues securely.
File Sharing: Threema allows users to share photos, videos, voice messages, and documents securely within the app. All files are encrypted.
Polls and Surveys: Threema includes a polling feature that allows users to create surveys and polls within group chats, facilitating decision-making and discussions.
Message Recall: You can recall or delete messages that you’ve sent, even after they’ve been read by the recipient.
Identity Verification: Threema provides a feature for verifying the identity of your contacts through QR codes or by comparing a unique fingerprint, ensuring you’re communicating with the intended person.
Customization: Threema offers customization options for themes, notification settings, and other preferences.
Cross-Platform: Threema is available on various platforms, including Android, iOS, and desktop (Windows, macOS, and Linux), making it accessible from multiple devices.
Privacy by Design: Threema follows a “privacy by design” approach, and its code has been independently audited to ensure the security and privacy of user data.

Threema is a messaging app that caters to users who prioritize privacy and security in their digital communications. It is particularly popular among individuals, organizations, and professionals who require confidential and secure messaging, such as journalists, activists, and healthcare professionals. While Threema offers strong privacy features, it’s essential for users to use the app responsibly and follow best practices to maximize the protection of their communication.

9. Dust

Dust, formerly known as “Cyber Dust,” is a privacy-focused messaging app designed to provide users with a high level of security and confidentiality in their communications. Dust emphasizes the ephemeral nature of messaging and aims to ensure that messages disappear after being read, leaving no digital trace.

Here are some key features and aspects of Dust:

Ephemeral Messaging: Dust allows users to send messages that automatically self-destruct after they are read, typically within seconds. This feature ensures that your conversations are temporary and do not leave a digital trail.
End-to-End Encryption: All messages sent through Dust are encrypted with end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the sender and the intended recipient can decrypt and read the content.
Secure File Sharing: You can securely send files, photos, videos, and documents within the app. Files shared through Dust are also subject to encryption.
Secure Voice Calls: Dust offers voice calling features with encryption, ensuring that your voice conversations remain private.
No Message History: Dust does not store message history on its servers, which means there is no central database of your messages. Once a message self-destructs, it is gone forever.
Screenshot Detection: Dust includes a screenshot detection feature that notifies you when someone takes a screenshot of your messages.
Blasts: Blasts are temporary group chats where messages are set to self-destruct. This is useful for organizing temporary group discussions.
Whisper: Whisper is a one-to-one private chat mode that provides an extra layer of privacy and security for sensitive conversations.
PrivateSend: Dust’s PrivateSend feature allows users to send messages that self-destruct even before being opened by the recipient.
Password Protection: You can protect your Dust app with a password or PIN, adding an extra layer of security.
Fingerprint and Face ID Authentication: Dust supports biometric authentication methods like fingerprint and Face ID on compatible devices for secure access.
Anonymous Account Creation: You can create a Dust account without the need to provide a phone number or email address, enhancing your privacy.
Cross-Platform: Dust is available on both Android and iOS, making it accessible to users on different devices.

Dust is aimed at individuals and organizations that prioritize privacy and security in their messaging and value the self-destructing message feature. It’s often used by professionals in fields such as law, finance, journalism, and healthcare, as well as individuals who want to ensure their private conversations remain confidential. However, as with any privacy-focused app, user behavior and device security are crucial factors in maintaining the privacy of your conversations, so responsible usage is essential.

10. Confide

Confide is a secure and confidential messaging app designed for professionals and individuals who prioritize privacy and confidentiality in their digital communications. The app is built with features that protect messages from being intercepted, ensure that they are kept private, and allow for the discreet exchange of sensitive information.

Here are some key features and aspects of Confide:

End-to-End Encryption: Confide uses end-to-end encryption for all messages, ensuring that only the sender and the intended recipient can decrypt and read the content. This encryption extends to text, photos, videos, and documents.
Screenshot Prevention: One of Confide’s standout features is its patented screenshot prevention technology. Messages are hidden by default, and users must swipe over them to reveal the content. As soon as a message is viewed, it is blurred again, making it extremely difficult to take a screenshot without detection.
Self-Destructing Messages: Similar to other privacy-focused messaging apps, Confide allows users to send self-destructing messages that automatically disappear after being read. This ensures that your conversations remain temporary and do not leave a digital trail.
Message Recall: You can recall or delete messages that you’ve sent, even after they’ve been read by the recipient.
Screen Lock and Biometric Authentication: Confide allows users to set up a screen lock and use biometric authentication methods (such as fingerprint or Face ID) for added security when accessing the app.
No Message History: Confide does not retain message history on its servers, ensuring that there is no central database of your conversations.
Confide Plus: The app offers a premium subscription service called Confide Plus, which includes features such as unlimited message recalls, the ability to attach photos and documents, and more.
Sender Verification: Confide has a sender verification feature that allows you to verify the identity of the sender through a QR code, ensuring that you’re communicating with the intended person.
Cross-Platform: Confide is available on both Android and iOS, making it accessible to users on different devices.

Confidence is often used in professional settings where secure and confidential communication is critical. It is favored by professionals in industries such as legal, healthcare, finance, and journalism, as well as by individuals who want to ensure their private conversations remain private. However, users should always exercise caution and adhere to responsible usage practices to maximize the protection of their conversations.

Conclusion

In today’s digital world, privacy is a significant concern. Whether you’re looking to have discreet conversations or protect sensitive information, these 10 sneaky links apps for Android offer various features to ensure your privacy is maintained. Remember that while these apps can help you stay discreet, it’s crucial to use them responsibly and ethically in all your interactions.