Why You Should Start Using the Signal App (And How to Do It Right)

Saturday, March 29, 2025

Why You Should Start Using the Signal App (And How to Do It Right)

Why You Should Start Using the Signal App (And How to Do It Right)

The Signal app delivers top-tier privacy and security in a world increasingly concerned with surveillance and data breaches. Learn how to install, use, and make the most of Signal across web, Android, and iOS platforms.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

March 29, 2025

Are Your Private Messages Really Private?

Think your text messages are secure?

Think again.

From tech giants mining metadata to cybercriminals exploiting weak encryption, the modern messaging landscape is full of hidden risks.

Here's a Cool Tip: Use Signal.

Signal is a free, open-source app trusted by journalists, activists, and privacy-conscious users around the world.

What Is Signal and Why Should You Care?

Signal is a secure messaging platform that provides end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for text messages, voice calls, video calls, images, and files.

It is developed by the non-profit Signal Foundation and is free to use, with no ads, trackers, or monetization through data harvesting.

Key Functions

End-to-End Encryption (E2EE): Messages can only be read by you and the recipient.
Self-Destructing Messages: Auto-delete messages after a set time.
No Metadata Logging: Signal does not store who you contacted or when.
Secure Group Chats: Privacy extends to groups, not just individuals.
Cross-Platform Support: Available on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Here's how to do it.

📱 Android and iOS

Download the App Android / iOS
Open the app and enter your phone number.
Verify using the SMS code sent to your device.
Choose a Signal PIN (used for profile recovery and secure identification).
Enable access to contacts and notifications (optional but useful).
Tap the pencil icon to begin a new message with a Signal user.
Enable Disappearing Messages (Optional) - Open a chat > tap contact name > enable Disappearing Messages and set a timer.

fig. 1 - Signal App is a Clean and Secure Message App

🖥️ Signal Desktop (Windows/macOS/Linux)

Install Signal on Your Phone First.
Download the Desktop App - signal.org/download/.
Open the desktop app and scan the QR code using Signal on your phone (Settings > Linked Devices).
Start Messaging from Your Desktop.

In an era of constant surveillance and corporate data mining, the Signal app stands out as a beacon of user-first design and uncompromising privacy.

It’s easy to install, intuitive to use, and backed by strong encryption.

Whether you're protecting personal messages or managing sensitive conversations, Signal helps you reclaim control over your digital life.

Ready to level up your digital privacy?

Download Signal today and start messaging with confidence.

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.