Signal has grown in popularity across the world as messaging titan WhatsApp comes under increased scrutiny. The alternative messaging service has received praise for the security and privacy it offers to users.
Are you thinking of following the users who have changed from WhatsApp to Signal? Here’s a complete guide to help you do that...
Why Are People Choosing Signal Over WhatsApp?
Despite having over 2 billion worldwide users, many have grown more skeptical of WhatsApp.
The fact that WhatsApp is owned by Facebook continues to be a sticking point for users concerned about their privacy. Facebook itself has been in the news for numerous data-related issues, and WhatsApp even removed an option for users to opt-out of sharing their information with the social media giant.
In January 2021, WhatsApp announced plans to update its privacy policy and terms of use that would force users to accept the new terms or stop using the app. The news turned out to be a publicity disaster and WhatsApp delayed the privacy policy update.
On the flip side, Signal is more privacy-minded and promises a different messaging experience. It's even endorsed by the likes of Edward Snowden.
How to Create a Signal Account
- Download the Signal app from the App Store or Google Play. After clicking through the feature intros, enter your phone number.
- After entering your phone number, you will receive a code. Enter this code into the app.
- Create a profile. You will need to enter your first name. You can also include your last name and a profile picture, but this is optional.
- After creating your profile, make a pin you’ll remember. You can choose between a four-digit number PIN, or creating an alphanumeric pin by tapping on this option above Next.
- Click Next and confirm your PIN code.
Download: Signal (Free) for Android | iOS
Invite WhatsApp Groups to Signal
Although you cannot physically move your group chats from WhatsApp to Signal, you can create a new group on Signal and invite WhatsApp group members using a link.
This is more convenient than adding group chat members one-by-one.
Here's how to do this:
- At the bottom of your home screen under Get Started, tap on New Group.
- If your friends and family are already on Signal, you can add them. If not, press Skip for this step.
- On the next page, create a group name and add a picture.
- When your group has been created, you will see an Invite Friends pop-up. Choose whether or not you want to approve new members, then go down to Enable and Share Link. For WhatsApp, tap on Copy Link.
One you have copied the link, open WhatsApp, go the relevant group chat, and share the link. Chat members will then be able to join.
Will Switching to Signal Delete My WhatsApp Account?
Switching to Signal does not automatically delete your WhatsApp account. If you want to, you are able to use both Signal and WhatsApp.
To delete WhatsApp, you’ll need to do this yourself.
When you’ve moved all your contacts over to Signal, you could technically delete WhatsApp just by removing the app. If you chose to do that, you wouldn't be able to see when others contact you. However, your account will still exist.
How to Delete Your WhatsApp Account
To fully get rid of your WhatsApp account, you need to delete your profile from within the app.
So if you want to make the switch for good, follow these steps to delete your WhatsApp account:
- Go to Settings > Account.
- At the bottom of the page, tap on the option to Delete My Account.
- On the next screen, you’ll be asked to confirm your account deletion. You will need to enter your phone number.
- Select Delete Account.
After deleting your WhatsApp account, all messaging history on your phone will also be removed. Your account information and profile picture will be deleted too, and you’ll also automatically leave any group chats you were previously in.
It’s worth noting that deleting WhatsApp won’t remove your other Facebook-owned accounts. Therefore, Facebook still has access to your data if you’re on these platforms.
If you want to delete Facebook and Messenger, you would need to permanently delete your Facebook profile. Similarly, deleting Instagram is the only way to stop the platform from collecting your data.
Secure, Encrypted Messaging Is Just a Few Taps Away
As more online users grow concerned about how their mobile data is used, Signal is offering a safer solution. Genuine end-to-end encryption, messages that self-destruct, and near-anonymity are all causing a shift from popular platforms such as WhatsApp.
Joining Signal takes less than a minute and the platform isn’t difficult to use. And now that you know how to, it’s time to enjoy secure messaging with your friends and family.
Image Credit: Ascannio/Shutterstock
