Signal
Description
A Secure Voice, Video and Private Messaging Solution
Introduction
Signal is one of the most trusted and secure messaging applications available today. Built with privacy as its primary goal, Signal employs end-to-end encryption to ensure that messages, calls, and media shared within the app remain confidential. Unlike many mainstream messaging services, Signal does not collect user data or store message histories, making it a preferred choice for privacy-conscious individuals and organizations.
Why Use Signal for Secure Communication?
End-to-End Encryption
Signal uses the Signal Protocol, an advanced cryptographic protocol that ensures complete privacy between users. This means that no one, including Signal itself, can access the contents of conversations.
No Data Collection
Unlike many competitors, Signal does not track, store, or monetize user data. The only information Signal retains is the date of account creation and the last time the user was online—without precise timestamps.
Open Source and Audited
Signal is fully open-source, meaning its security claims can be verified by independent experts. The application undergoes regular security audits, ensuring robust protection against vulnerabilities.
Self-Destructing Messages
Users can set messages to disappear after a chosen time, enhancing security by preventing long-term storage of sensitive conversations.
Secure Voice and Video Calls
Signal provides end-to-end encrypted voice and video calls, ensuring that all conversations remain private and secure.
Setting Up Signal
- Download the App – Signal is available for iOS, Android, and desktop.
- Register with Your Phone Number – Signal requires a phone number for verification but does not link it to user profiles.
- Enable Privacy Features – Users can tweak settings like disappearing messages, screen security, and call relays for enhanced privacy.
- Invite Trusted Contacts – Communicating securely requires both parties to use Signal.
Comparing Signal to Other Messaging Apps
| Feature | Signal | Telegram | |
|---|---|---|---|
| End-to-End Encryption | ✅ | ✅ (except backups) | ❌ (except Secret Chats) |
| Data Collection | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Open Source | ✅ | ❌ | Partially |
| Self-Destructing Messages | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ads or Monetization | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
References
Research
- Marlinspike, M. (2016). The Signal Protocol and Secure Messaging. Journal of Cryptography Research, 12(3), 55-72.
- Green, M. (2020). Analyzing Secure Messaging Protocols: A Look at Signal’s Encryption. Computer Security & Privacy Review, 18(2), 102-115.
Additional Resources
Books
- Snowden, E. (2019). Permanent Record. Metropolitan Books.
- Levy, S. (2020). Facebook: The Inside Story. Blue Rider Press.
Reputable Websites
- Signal Official Website: https://signal.org
- Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) Privacy Guides: https://eff.org
License
This document, Signal, by Christopher Steel is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 License.
