Messaging

Is Line Safe?

Owned by Line Corporation (SoftBank/Naver) • Last updated January 2026

📋 Short Answer:
Line offers optional E2E encryption but collects significant data for advertising. Popular in Japan and Southeast Asia.
PrivacyDefend Safety Score
5.5/10
Average
Data Collection
🔴 High
Encryption
🟡 Partial
Third-Party Sharing
🔴 Yes
Privacy Controls
🟡 Average

📊 What Data Does Line Collect?

Line has high data collection practices. Here's what they collect:

This level of data collection is concerning for apps in the messaging category.

Why This Matters

The data Line collects can be used for personalization, advertising, analytics, and may be shared with third parties. Understanding what's collected helps you make informed privacy decisions.

🔒 Line Encryption & Security

Encryption Level: Partial

Optional Letter Sealing E2E encryption for chats. Not enabled by default.

What This Means For You

Your data is encrypted during transmission but may be accessible by the company on their servers.

🔗 Does Line Share Your Data?

Third-Party Sharing: Yes

Shares data with affiliates and advertising partners.

✅ What's Good

  • Partial encryption
  • Average privacy controls

❌ Concerns

  • High data collection
  • Shares data with third parties
  • Part of larger data ecosystem

⚠️ Line Privacy Controversies

Line has faced scrutiny for the following privacy and security concerns:

These incidents highlight the importance of understanding Line's privacy practices before use.

🔄 Safer Alternatives to Line

Looking for more privacy-focused options? Consider these alternatives:

🛡️ Recommended Privacy Products

Enhance your privacy when using Line with these tools:

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our privacy research.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Line safe to use in 2026?
Line offers optional E2E encryption but collects significant data for advertising. Popular in Japan and Southeast Asia.
What data does Line collect about me?
Line collects: phone number, messages, contacts, location, usage data. This is considered high data collection.
Does Line sell my personal data?
Shares data with affiliates and advertising partners.
Is Line safe for kids?
We recommend parental supervision. Check our detailed analysis for kids.
What are safer alternatives to Line?
Consider: Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp. See our alternatives section above.

Last updated: January 2026 • Review by PrivacyDefend Research Team