Free secure messaging app
Signal is a free, privacy-first instant messaging app developed by WhatsApp co-founder’s non-profit organization. The new application is all about focusing on security and ensuring high-level encryption to all users while still providing all the messaging features you’d find in more popular alternatives.
Safety first
Signal has been around since 2018. It exploded in popularity in 2020 when its primary competitor, WhatsApp, started sharing user data with Facebook. People massively made a transition to secure alternatives such as Telegram and this app.
The state-of-the-art end-to-end encryption powered by open-source Signal Protocol guarantees all conversations are secure. The privacy policy even ensures the authorities can access your communications only in specific cases.
Essential messaging features
Although it doesn’t boast as many users as other popular texting apps, Signal seeks to provide all the same features and tools to its users. There are even no ads in-app, thanks to its non-profit background.
You can create an account with your existing phone number and instantly access every contact in your address book. The enhanced audio and video features ensure that calls run smoothly and hassle-free. You won’t find any custom emojis to send to other members in-app. It does have built-in image editing features though.
Easy to use
Signal is slick, straightforward, and intuitive to use. The buttons on the screen side make it easy to start one-on-one conversations or create a group chat with up to 150 people. There’s a dark theme too.
Group admins can determine the rules for the chat, while everybody can send self-destructing messages. You can lock the app with a passcode or fingerprint and set up 2-factor authentication, so no third-parties access the app.
Our take
Overall, Signal is the best solution for handling classified information and maintaining your privacy. While it doesn’t come with all Messenger’s bells and whistles, it’s the ideal option for those who place security over convenience.
Should you download it?
Yes. If you’re concerned about how social media platforms are storing your information and data, this app is the right choice for you.
