Helios.TALK: A decentralised messaging framework that preserves the privacy of users
Ioannis Sarridis1, Vasiliki Gkatziaki1, Emmanouil Krasanakis1
1Information Technologies Institute, Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), Thessaloniki, 57001, Greece.
Open Research Europe
|February 11, 2025
Summary
Decentralized messaging tools enhance user data control and privacy. The HELIOS platform offers a framework and app (helios.TALK) for secure, context-aware mobile communication, improving user experience in decentralized social networks.
Area of Science:
- Computer Science
- Information Security
- Mobile Computing
Background:
- Digital communication is vital, but centralized messaging apps compromise user data privacy.
- Decentralization offers enhanced data confidentiality and trustworthiness but often lacks features and usability.
- Existing decentralized solutions struggle to balance security with user experience and functionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce novel decentralized messaging tools within the HELIOS platform.
- To enable the development of new decentralized social networks with improved user data control.
- To address the limitations of current decentralized systems regarding features and user experience.
Main Methods:
- Development of a framework for context-aware decentralized messaging apps on Android.
- Integration of standalone decentralized operations into a cohesive platform.
- Creation of helios.TALK, a decentralized messaging application built upon the developed framework.
- Incorporation of end-user design considerations into the messaging app.
Main Results:
- Successful creation of two interconnected decentralized messaging tools.
- A framework enabling context-aware decentralized messaging on Android devices.
- A functional decentralized messaging app, helios.TALK, with enhanced usability.
- Demonstration of a viable approach for supporting new decentralized social networks.
Conclusions:
- The HELIOS platform provides a robust solution for decentralized mobile messaging.
- The developed tools balance data privacy with improved features and user experience.
- This work facilitates the growth of secure and user-friendly decentralized social networks.
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