What is Jabber? The Go-To Darknet Instant Messenger

Regarding messaging apps, people generally flock to your better-known platforms like Whatsapp or Telegram. But when it comes to those who seek ultimate anonymity, to those using darknet markets, there’s a different messaging system. A secure and useful platform that the wider world doesn’t know well enough, Jabber. Let’s check out whether or not Jabber is worth all the hype.

Quick Tips

In order to make communication via XMPP as anonymous and secure as possible

• Connect to Jabber servers should only be done through Tor
• Only use PGP encryption
• Use randomized login like [email protected]
• Configure 256-bit encryption in app settings
• Follow Basic OpSec

What is Jabber?

Jabber is a communication application currently owned by Cisco. The software has been developing since 1999 and is based on the XMPP messaging service design. Jabber is open-source and known for its security. It’s an ad-free alternative to messenger services like Yahoo, ICQ, AIM, or MSN. 

Jabber is designed to allow large corporations and organizations to efficiently communicate and collaborate on projects to optimize their workflow. It’s also a great tool for Darknet and Opsec. Using Jabber’s federation, any darknet vendor or privacy user can open a server and run it as they see fit. With no necessary KYC, this is attractive for criminals since they can prevent the company from cooperating closely with governments, especially in the United States. That’s why some Jabber servers are set up specifically to cater to criminals.

It makes sense why they would prioritize security if businesses are their target market, right? Like other messaging platforms, Jabber gives you tools to facilitate real-time messaging, voice and video calls, presence information, file sharing, and online meetings. 

With Cisco Jabber, users can communicate and collaborate with colleagues, customers, and partners across different devices and platforms, including desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. It supports both on-premises and cloud-based deployments, offering flexibility to organizations based on their specific requirements.

About XMPP

As mentioned, Jabber was built on the Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP). XMPP is a set of open-source technologies allowing instant messaging, multi-party chats, and more. This protocol was developed with Jabber to provide an open, decentralized alternative to traditional closed messaging apps.

 This app’s open-source and decentralized nature makes it perfect for businesses who want to collaborate in-house while trusting that their information is safe and secure from cyber-attacks. Let’s take a look at some of the features of this software.

Features of Jabber

As a communications app, there are a few features that you are most likely familiar with. Remember that Jabber was initially aimed at improving business communication. Let’s take a look at what features Jabber offers:

Instant Messaging

Like other well-known messaging apps, Jabber can send instant messages. This means you can chat actively with a person in real-time over Jabber.

No KYC

Jabber servers registered only need login and password. That means no linking to a cell phone, email or other personal data. New accounts take a few seconds to set up, and a single device can access hundreds of accounts.

Voice and Video Calls

You are also able to use voice and audio calls with Jabber. The quality of either form of calling is reasonable but still subject to your internet speed and camera quality. 

Presence Info

Jabber also gives users the ability to follow each other’s online presence with status and more. Users can stay connected to ongoing projects, and a bonus is that they can do so across platforms and from the comfort of their own homes.

File Sharing

Jabber allows users to share files with their contacts. This makes collaboration easier, especially in the office. Users can exchange documents, presentations, and more with Jabber.

Screen Sharing

The feature is a standout for Jabber in comparison to other messenger apps. Sharing your screen with others makes collaboration much easier in the workplace. This turns a simple messenger app into a conference platform similar to Zoom or Skype.

Supported on Multiple Platforms

Jabber is available on various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, providing seamless communication across different devices. You can even download Jabber on your Apple or Android watch.

Can Integrate with Other Apps

Jabber can also integrate other tools made by the same developer. Cisco has tools like Cisco Webex, Cisco TelePresence, and Cisco Meeting Server. This expands what Jabber can do compared to apps like WhatsApp or Signal.

Jabber Security Features

Along with its standard features, Jabber has spared no expense regarding its security features. As mentioned earlier, businesses want to know that their discussions are protected and secure. Let’s take a look at how Jabber protects its user privacy:

• Secure Sign-in:
  • From the kick-off, Jabber uses a secure sign-in feature. This involves using a password and user name or other authenticating credentials. Single sign-on is also integrated into this process. This ensures that only the account holder can get onto their Jabber account. With that said, if an info-stealer manages to contact your personal info, you might still be at risk.
• Encryption:
  • Now let’s talk about encryption. Jabber uses two types of encryption. Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol (SRTP) for video and voice calls and Transport Layer Security (TLS) for instant messages. SRTP uses end-to-end encryption to protect media streams that are exchanged between users. 
• 256-bit Encryption
  • TLS encrypts your instant messages in transit using various encryption algorithms, including the Advance Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm. To add to security on Jabber, you can even use 256-bit encryption. Most data is set to 128-bit encryption as a standard; however, you can configure 256-bit encryption in app settings. TLS is also used to encrypt any shared files exchanged between users.
• Open-Source:
  • Because of its open-source nature, Jabber can also be configured to enforce any security policies or controls that an organization might want. This allows businesses to restrict usage, set password parameters, and more. 
    Once again, the benefit of it being open-source comes. Jabbers’ code and everything they do can be audited and checked publicly. This ensures that they are always accountable, and if they have any bugs, they will be found and dealt with quickly. 

We mentioned in the last section that Jabber can integrate with other Cisco-developed apps. With the integration of Endpoint security, you can bulk up your app’s defense even more. You can use Cisco Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) to protect against malware, viruses, and other threats that may be transmitted through file transfers or malicious links.

Jabber Vs. Other Messaging Services

Some key standouts need to be mentioned if we compare Jabber to instant messenger platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal. The most obvious difference is that Jabber is decentralized, whereas WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal are centralized software. 

Telegram has become a popular go-to for Darknet users and opened doors to new darknet markets. However, you need to have a mobile number connected, and there are many more scammers, marketers, and bots that turn Jabber in a greater deal for Darknet users.

Another difference is that these IM’s target audiences are the individual. They aim to provide an easy and efficient communication platform with multiple uses. However, as we have discussed, Jabber targets businesses and attempts to improve communication and work efficiency within companies. 

This can be seen in the app features. All apps above can do instant messaging, voice and video calls, and send or receive files. A significant difference with Jabber is that you can also share your screen while on a video call. This is perfect for conference calls and collaboration between employees. You don’t use a phone number as you would on apps like WhatsApp. Instead, you create a username and password for your account, or your business will develop accounts you will link to. 

Frequently Asked Questions