Protect your sensitive information and maintain confidentiality
On the 15th of March 2025, U.S. national-security leaders included The Atlantic’s Editor in Chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, in a group chat about upcoming military strikes in Yemen. Like others, I was gobsmacked that Signal Messenger was the channel used to distribute classified information about the intended war plan.
However, as a board director and advisory professional, I understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality and protecting sensitive information. As a professional, you likely use various messaging apps to stay in touch with colleagues, clients, and partners. However, not all messaging apps are created equal when it comes to security and privacy. In this article, we’ll provide you with expert-recommended security tips to help you use Signal safely and securely.
Why Signal Messenger?
Signal is a popular, end-to-end encrypted messaging app that’s widely regarded as one of the most secure communication platforms available. Its encryption protocol, known as the Signal Protocol, is used by other popular messaging apps. Signal has become a favourite among professionals, journalists, and activists who require secure communication. And national-security leaders it would appear.
Security Tips for Using Signal
-Verify Contacts: When communicating with someone new, verify their identity by checking their phone number or username. You can also use Signal’s built-in verification feature, which uses a QR code or a numeric code to confirm the identity of the person you’re communicating with.
– Use Two-Factor Authentication: Enable 2FA for your Signal account, which requires a second form of verification, such as a SMS code sent to your phone or a biometric fingerprint scan, in addition to your password.
– Use End-to-End Encryption: Signal’s end-to-end encryption ensures that only you and the recipient can read the messages. Make sure you’re using the latest version of Signal, and that you’ve enabled end-to-end encryption for all conversations.
– Enable Signal’s Disappearing Messages: Signal’s disappearing messages feature allows you to set a timer for messages to automatically delete after a specified period.
– Enable Screen Lock and Set a Strong Password: Enable Signal’s screen lock feature, which requires a PIN or biometric authentication to access the app. Use a strong, unique password for your Signal account.
– Monitor Your Account Activity: Regularly monitor your Signal account activity, such as login attempts and message history, to detect any suspicious activity. If you suspect someone is trying to compromise your Signal account or messages, report it to Signal’s support team immediately.
– Use a VPN: Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your Signal communications from interception.
Conclusion
Signal is a secure and reliable messaging app that’s widely used by professionals and individuals who require secure communication. Nonetheless as a professional, it’s essential to prioritise security and privacy in your digital communications. By using Signal and following best practices for secure communication, you can protect your reputation, your business, and your relationships.
About Gary Morgan: Gary Morgan is an experienced board director, chief executive, consultant, and corporate advisor with extensive experience in strategy, innovation, and growth across various deep tech sectors including sustainable energy, health tech, aged care, and information security. He is a Fellow at the Governance Institute of Australia and serves on the Griffith University Industry Advisory Board for the ICT School. Gary has co-authored papers and reports published in entrepreneurship and medical journals.
Acknowledgment: This article was crafted with the assistance of AI technology.
References
The Atlantic. The Trump Administration Accidentally Texted Me Its War Plans. https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/03/trump-administration-accidentally-texted-me-its-war-plans/682151/
Signal. Signal Terms & Privacy Policy. https://signal.org/legal/
Electronic Frontier Foundation. Surveillance Self-Defense. https://ssd.eff.org
Australian Government. Australian Cyber Security Centre. https://www.cyber.gov.au
Note: The information provided in this article is for general guidance only and should not be considered as professional advice. It’s essential to consult with a qualified security expert or IT professional for personalised advice on securing your Signal Messenger communications.
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