The Signal Private Messenger app encrypts our conversations and protects them from sometimes overly nosy authorities. With this application, will our private messages truly never fall into unwanted hands?
We don't like to scare you, Vikings. But we always want to warn you and make you aware, so you properly look after your interests. We also don't like to dabble in politics. But for today's post, we have to touch on it slightly. A revised police law recently came into force. Whether it's good or bad, whether it surveils citizens or not – it's not for us to decide. One thing is certain – it brought up the topic of our security and privacy, especially online. And that's good. Because it reminded us of the need to take care of our well-being, peace of mind, and confidential data and conversations.
Until recently, it seemed that the only way to 100% protect your online conversations from nosy authorities was to move them into the real world. But American IT specialists have already rushed to our aid. The solution is a free application from Open Whisper Systems – Signal Private Messenger, available on both iOS and Android.
This messenger is modest in its functionalities and simple to use. You won't find fancy emoticons in it. But it has one significant advantage over the others – the unique encryption function for content transmitted between users. This applies to both messages written and words spoken during phone calls. Only a trace of contact remains online, but its content is reportedly a sweet secret forever. Some media report that breaking or intercepting these ciphers is completely impossible, even for the American FBI.
However, vigilant users point out that after installing the application, you need to provide your phone number to confirm your identity later with a code received via SMS. The creators of the messenger assure that after a short while, the data is completely deleted from the server. But in today's surveilled world, can we be sure of anything? ☺
Signal is becoming increasingly popular. But other messengers don't seem to lag behind for long. Recently, WhatsApp also introduced full encryption for content exchanged by its users.
Does this mean that our online conversations will truly remain fully private and confidential forever? We'll leave that question unanswered, forgive us ☺ But remember, careful use of the internet has never harmed anyone, especially not vigilant Vikings!
