5 min readBengaluruSep 13, 2024 06:57 PM IST
First published on: Jul 17, 2024 at 05:30 PM IST
In order to add more value to its users, Jio has been building a suite of services around its 4G and 5G networks. Recently, Jio introduced JioSafe, which it claims to be an ultra-secure communication app. In simple words, it is a secure video-calling application.
Although JioSafe comes with a monthly subscription charge of Rs 199 for Android and iOS, the telecom giant announced an introductory offer, making it free for a year. With JioSafe, the company is trying to carve a space for itself among the secure video-calling platforms. Here is everything you need to know about JioSafe.
A calling app with five levels of protection
JioSafe security features. (Express Photo)
The company claims that JioSafe is a calling app with five levels of protection and is said to be “hack-proof.” It can be used to text, make audio, or video calls to other JioSafe users. However, unlike any other instant messaging or calling apps, there are some prerequisites specific to using JioSafe; otherwise, the app simply won’t work.
Firstly, the JioSafe app best works on a 5G smartphone with a Jio SIM card that is connected to a 5G network. It can also be used on a 4G smartphone, connected to a Wi-Fi network. Jio recommends that, JioSafe, when used on a Jio 5G network will offer enhanced security.
This also means JioSafe will be limited to India, and anyone outside the country won’t be able to access this service.
For now, one needs to have a data plan with access to unlimited 5G data to use JioSafe. Starting next year, one will also need to pay a monthly fee to continue to use the app.
Not just during the sign-up, every time one wants to send a message or make a call using JioSafe, the phone should have 5G connectivity; if not, the app won’t work. It supports both individual video calls and group video calls called Secure Room, which can accommodate up to five users at once.
Is JioSafe really safe?
The app only works when connected to Jio 5G network. (Express Photo)
Well, Jio claims it to be safe as it makes use of Jio 5G’s quantum-secure network which is said to be impenetrable. Every call made through the JioSafe app will be encrypted and authenticated, supposedly making it impossible for unauthorised access.
A 5G wireless network itself is much safer than a 4G/3G/2G network by default. Besides offering lower latency and higher internet speed, it is built on top of a secure architecture, specifically the 5G standalone (SA) network by Jio which uses a dedicated core network hardware enabling 256-bit network encryption. Also, it uses a technology called Subscriber Concealed Identity (SCI), which will never reveal the user’s identity. Due to these core advantages, JioSafe does seem to be a much safer platform.
If you are trying to call a user through JioSafe, it also marks them as secure using a shield icon to ensure that both parties are protected from potential threats. And if a contact does not have a shield icon, they are not safe.
Users need to give access to all the contacts saved on their phone to JioSafe to analyse other users, and the app also allows users to invite others to sign up for JioSafe by sending an invite SMS with an app download link from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
How is JioSafe different from Signal?
Signal is one of the most popular secure messaging and calling apps; however, unlike JioSafe, Signal can work on any mobile or Wi-Fi network without any hassle. And unlike JioSafe, Signal is a free-to-use app with no subscriptions, and it can be used on almost any smartphone. JioSafe is owned by Reliance Jio, while Signal is not owned by a sole entity or conglomerate.
How is JioSafe different from WhatsApp?
While JioSafe has a few features that are similar to WhatsApp, Meta’s instant messaging and calling app is a completely different platform altogether and is available for smartphones and desktops.
When it comes to security, WhatsApp and Signal are end-to-end encryption based services. On the other hand, JioSafe for now seems to offer only encrypted services.
Is JioSafe a better alternative?
Considering it’s a brand-new platform and is available for free, although limited to Jio users, this is an interesting app that promises privacy and security. However, right now, there aren’t many JioSafe users, and there are already plenty of messaging and calling apps that are free and much easier to access on a wide range of devices and networks. If you are looking for a secure platform to connect with others, JioSafe is definitely worth exploring.
JioSafe app is available for both Android and iOS devices. (Express Photo) 
JioSafe security features. (Express Photo)
The app only works when connected to Jio 5G network. (Express Photo)
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