AstraChat offers secure group chat

Every time I hear a report about someone's private chats getting hacked or snooped I wonder why some talented programmers haven't created a secure alternative to the common chat programs we all use.

It turns out that the coders at Rockliffe Systems have done just that. Their product is called AstraChat. It lets users communicate securely in real time using almost any platform, from iOS an Android mobiles to Windows, Mac and even Linux desktops.

With AstraChat, users can communicate one-to-one or in groups both small and large. In addition to sending and receiving text messages, they also can exchange photos and conduct VoIP conference calls.

A key element in the AstraChat structure is its use of its own enterprise server instead of using a commercial chat platform with a cloud installation or a proxy server.  AstraChat clients support SSL and TLS encryption and optional encryption using OTR (Off the Record).

The AstraChat client software is always connected to an XMPP server running in the background to provide immediate push notifications of new messages. And the elimination of a proxy server add enhanced security.

Client apps are available for free from the Apple App Store, the Google Play Store and the Amazon App Store.  The apps connect directly to the AstraChat server and do not require users to sign up or create an account.

For a closer look, check out the video below and for more details, visit the AstraChat website.

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Written by Ric Manning

Follow me on Twitter @ricmanning and read my technology columns at My Well Being.