Could always try signal or something else that has groupchats, technically whatsapp is e2e encrypted but the contacts thing is really bad
Signal is not safe at all if you're looking for total anonymity. While it uses end-to-end encryption, it still requires a phone number for registration, collects some metadata, and can be linked to your identity if your number is traceable. Your IP can also be exposed during calls unless you enable the relay option. If you want to stay truly anonymous while chatting with people worldwide, you need a secure setup that doesn't compromise your identity over time. The best way is to get a secondary phone (burner) that you keep long-term with an anonymous profile instead of using and discarding it. Buy it in cash, avoid high-end smartphones with biometric features, and opt for a cheap Android with an unlockable bootloader. Never sign in with a Google or Apple account, and install a secure OS like GrapheneOS or CalyxOS (if compatible), setting everything up safely through Tails OS or Whonix on a PC before connecting it to the internet. Your phone needs a SIM card, but it must not be tied to your identity. The best options are prepaid SIMs bought with cash, SIMs registered under a third party, international anonymous SIMs bought with cryptocurrency, or temporary eSIMs purchased without providing documents. To protect your data traffic, always use Tor or a no-log VPN, avoiding personal or public Wi-Fi networks that can track you. For messaging, use Session or Briar, which don't require a phone number and protect metadata, and avoid WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal if linked to your personal number. For browsing, always rely on Tor Browser, a secure OS like Tails running from a USB, or an isolated virtual machine, ensuring that no traces are left behind.