Signal announces support for usernames to hide your phone number

As announced today on its blog, Signal users will be able to go to their settings and select “Profile” to create a unique username. The app will then allow its users to share said username by generating either a shareable QR code or a link. Alternatively, users can log in by typing your username into the new chat bar.

Traditionally, Signal required the use of a phone number to create an account and use its features. This resulted in the need to reveal your phone number to other people you exchanged messages with. Although the app still requires a phone number to create an account, you will now have the option to protect it and use a username as an alias instead. Signal also rolls out other security features, such as the ability to restrict users. can find you using your phone number. This means you can block people from messaging or calling you on Signal, even if they know your phone number and know you have an account. Additionally, the app will now hide your phone number by default if users don't already have it in their contact list. You can change this setting in Privacy > Phone number > Who can see my number.

These privacy-focused additions come after Signal began testing usernames last fall. If you choose to create a username, it will also not be visible on your profile details page or in chats unless you actively share it. As Signal Director of Product Randall Sarafa explains: “Someone will need to know your unique and correct username in order to start a conversation with you on Signal. »

While these features enhance privacy, Signal is aware of the potential for identity theft and emphasizes security features such as security number comparison for verification purposes. Currently, these features are only available in the beta version of the app, but will roll out to everyone in a few weeks. Your WhatsApp move!