Messaging apps are used frequently in the IM community for informal communication.
To address growing concerns of data privacy issues, OICT has reviewed and endorsed the use of the Signal app for the communication of sensitive information. Unlike some of the other available services used by UN Secretariat personnel, Signal is geared toward privacy and security. It provides similar functionality to other common instant messaging applications such as, group chats, voice and video calls, while protecting a user’s privacy and encrypting communications sent and received.
Skype is a free messaging app that is used extensively within the humanitarian IM community. Many countries have IM groups and there are many global groups, including:
GRP: OCHA IM - is an informal, internal community of practice for OCHA IMOs both in the field and at HQ. Managed by FIS GRP Inter Agency IM - an informal community of practice for humanitarian IMOs from all agencies
To join any group it is recommended that you contact the manager or be added by another member and follow the group rules, and it is good to keep in mind that although these are informal groups comments are seen by many and all conversations should remain polite, respectful and on topic.
WhatsApp is used more commonly in the Latin American and the Caribbean and Asia-Pacific regions.