Signal Usernames

Signal has positioned itself as one of, if not the best mainstream messaging service when it comes to preserving its users’ privacy. Everything, including metadata, is end-to-end encrypted using the quantum resistant Signal protocol. They have group video call support, text formatting, message editing and scheduling, disappearing messages, the controversial stories, and more. It’s all great until we bring up phone numbers. I think the phone number requirement has been one the most contested aspects of the messaging service so far. In order to connect with anyone on the platform you have to share phone numbers and that doesn’t sit well with privacy-sensitive folks. Exchanging phone numbers isn’t that big of a deal when we talk about family and close friends, but when it’s time to link up with a client, business partner, or just an acquaintance from the internet, people tend to be reluctant in handing out their phone numbers, and rightfully so. Now all of this has changed! ...

March 1, 2024 · 5 min