The bridge just uses whatsapp web (so you will still “use” it). It works like a dream but you need to trust who ever hosts it as the messages to the bridge are unencrypted. But you dont have to use their app anymore.
This isn’t exactly correct. The bridge terminates the service encryption then applies matrix encryption (if used). So there’s a moment where the messages exist in an unencrypted state, but that’s not the same as bridge -> client being unencrypted.
So yes unencrypted state exists at the bridge for a period of time, but it’s not perpetually unencrypted.
Does Matrix bridge somehow mean I can use something other than WhatsApp to send messages to people who refuse to use an alternative?
The bridge just uses whatsapp web (so you will still “use” it). It works like a dream but you need to trust who ever hosts it as the messages to the bridge are unencrypted. But you dont have to use their app anymore.
This isn’t exactly correct. The bridge terminates the service encryption then applies matrix encryption (if used). So there’s a moment where the messages exist in an unencrypted state, but that’s not the same as bridge -> client being unencrypted.
So yes unencrypted state exists at the bridge for a period of time, but it’s not perpetually unencrypted.
But if it is a spook or scammer hosting then they get everything
Thanks for the explanation.
Bit WhatsApp web only works as a linked device, so you still need WhatsApp on your phone?
Well I activated it and then uninstalled it and since then it works.