Signal, the private communications app

The private communications app, Signal, has been in the news this week for all the wrong reasons! It’s not a platform that usually gets a great deal of publicity, with WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger tending to be the usual go-tos for our messaging apps. So what is Signal, and should you think about using it even when your business doesn’t use classified information?!

Signal is a free, open-source messaging app renowned for its strong emphasis on privacy and security. It has end-to-end encryption for messages, voice calls, and video calls, meaning that only the sender and recipient can access the content. Neither Signal nor any third party can read or listen to the communications. In 2024, the platform had 70m active users but is still quite niche with less usage than its competitor, Telegram.

The Features of Signal

The key features include:

End-to-End Encryption: Uses the Signal Protocol, which is also used by WhatsApp and other secure messaging platforms;
Privacy-Focused: Collects minimal user data (only your phone number) and does not track user activity, which other platforms do to offer advertising;
Secure Messaging: Supports text messages, voice messages, images, videos, and file sharing, all encrypted.
Disappearing Messages: Messages can be set to auto-delete after a certain time.
Group Chats and Calls: Encrypted group conversations and calls are supported – be careful who you invite to join though!
Cross-Platform: Available on iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Signal is widely recommended by privacy advocates, cybersecurity experts, and anyone interested in having secure communications due to its strong encryption and commitment to user privacy.

A drinks business might not need to discuss war plans, but could use Signal in specific situations where privacy, security, and confidentiality are important. So, when might you find it useful?

Secure Internal Communication

When discussing confidential topics such as new product development, marketing strategies, pricing, or new supplier agreements, Signal can help you to ensure these messages stay private.
Teams working remotely or internationally in politically challenging markets can use it for encrypted group chats and calls.

Communicating with Key Partners

If dealing with sensitive commercial negotiations with distributors, suppliers, or investors, Signal can provides a secure way to exchange information.
Businesses expanding into international markets may need private discussions on regulations, legal matters, or trade secrets. The app is popular in countries such as Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Crisis Management and Sensitive Discussions

If you’re facing a PR crisis, product recall, or legal issue, secure communication between executives and PR teams can be critical so Signal could add value.
Internal discussions about potential business risks (e.g., counterfeit products, compliance issues) can be protected from leaks by using the app.

Protecting Customer and Influencer Relations

If you’re working with high-profile brand ambassadors, influencers, or celebrity partners, Signal can help to keep contracts and campaign details confidential.
VIP customers or high-net-worth clients might prefer to use Signal to communicate more discreetly.

Avoiding Data Tracking by Competitors

Unlike WhatsApp or other messaging platforms, Signal doesn’t track metadata or collect user data, which reduces the risk of competitors accessing business-sensitive information through third parties.

While a private communications app like Signal might not be necessary for everyday customer relations (rather than classified information!), it can be a valuable tool in your business when used strategically for secure, private, and confidential business communication.