How To Set Up Signal for Secure Communications

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How To Set Up Signal for Secure Communications
Photo by Adem AY / Unsplash

When you’re protesting or organizing, your messages can be vulnerable to surveillance or interception. Using an encrypted app like Signal keeps your conversations private and secure. It's a smart habit for everyday organizing, mutual aid, and community building.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Download Signal

Install the Signal app on your phone: https://signal.org/
Important: When prompted, do NOT allow access to your contacts.

2. Open and Register

  • Open the app and tap Continue.
  • Grant camera permissions if you want to make video calls, and microphone permissions for audio/video calls.
  • Enable notifications if you want to receive message alerts.
  • Do NOT grant access to your contacts.
  • Enter your phone number and tap Next.

3. Verify Your Phone Number

  • Signal will send a verification code via SMS.
  • Enter the code manually or tap the notification to autofill.
    Note: A valid phone number is required to register, but it can be hidden later to protect your privacy.

4. Set Up Your Profile

  • Recommendation: Do not use your real name or nicknames, use an alias that cannot be connected to your identity.
  • Optionally, add a profile image.
    • Do NOT use a photo of yourself or anything that reveals your identity.

5. Create a Signal PIN

  • Choose a minimum 4-digit PIN (6+ digits or alphanumeric is better).
  • This PIN secures your account and is used for account recovery and encryption.
  • Note: Do not forget this PIN. Signal will ask for it regularly to ensure security.

6. Create a Username

  • Tap your avatar/profile image > Tap your display name
  • Under @Username, create a unique handle (not your real name).
    • Signal will add two digits at the end automatically (don't worry about this.
    • This username is used for others to find you without using your phone number.

7. Keep Your Phone Number Private

To prevent others from seeing your phone number:

  1. Go to Signal > Settings > Privacy
  2. Tap Phone Number
  3. Set both options to:
    • Who can see my number? > Nobody
    • Who can find me by my number > Nobody

8. Share Your Profile Securely

  • Tap your avatar > Tap the QR code icon (top-right corner)
  • You'll see:
    • A QR code others can scan
    • A link (tap the link icon below the QR) you can share. Anyone with this link can start a chat with you. Keep it secure.
    • A Scan option at the top to add someone else's QR code directly.

How to Start Messaging

Add a Contact
Ask your contact to share their Signal link or QR code. Avoid searching by phone number to keep privacy.

Start a Chat
Tap the pencil icon in the top-right corner (Android) or the compose icon (iPhone), then select or scan your contact’s QR code or use their Signal username.

Use Disappearing Messages
For extra privacy, open the chat, tap the contact’s name at the top, then turn on Disappearing Messages. Set a time limit that fits your needs.

Double Check Identity
Verify safety numbers by tapping your contact’s name > View Safety Number. Confirm in person or over a secure channel.

Stay secure, protect your privacy, and connect safely.