Signal launches usernames to keep your phone number private

Signal Introduces Usernames for Chats to Enhance Privacy

New Delhi, Feb 21 (IANS) Encrypted messaging platform Signal is launching usernames for chats to keep your phone number private. As of now, the phone number will no longer be visible to everyone in Signal. The new default setting aims to enhance privacy for users by allowing them to create a unique username instead of sharing their phone number.

According to the company, “People who have your number saved in their phone’s contacts will still see your phone number since they already know it.” However, a username can now be created to initiate contact on Signal without sharing the phone number. This move aims to provide users with more control over their privacy and personal information.

The unique username feature is not the same as a profile name and will not be visible to the people you are chatting with on Signal. Additionally, a new optional privacy setting can be enabled by users. This setting ensures that unless people have the exact unique username, they won’t be able to start a conversation or even know that you have a Signal account – even if they have your phone number.

These new features are currently in beta and will be rolling out to everyone in the coming weeks. Once implemented, the phone number will no longer be visible in Signal to anyone running the latest version of Signal who doesn’t already have it saved in their phone’s contacts. The company also added that they are introducing a setting that lets users control who can find them by their phone number on Signal.

This update comes as the company continues to prioritize user privacy and security. With the latest features, users will have more control over their personal information and who can contact them on the messaging platform. Notably, Signal has been gaining popularity and currently has 40 million active users.

The move to introduce usernames for chats and enhance privacy settings reflects Signal’s commitment to providing a secure and private messaging experience for its users. With the upcoming rollout of these features, users can expect more control over their personal information and increased privacy on the platform.

–IANS
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