Product Journeys: Signal

Signal is having a moment. The pandemic drove unprecedented sign-ups on the encrypted messaging app, as people started communicating more online. Then, nationwide protests over police brutality prompted another round of records. Signal saw about one million downloads world-wide in May, according to analytics firm App Annie. Protesters have flocked to the app. Even though people who organize and participate in protests are protected by the First Amendment, they often seek secure communication, out of caution. And if they do get into legal trouble, Signal is designed to limit the information the messaging service can give to the authorities. That is what initially attracted privacy die-hards to Signal. In a 2015 talk, the app’s creator, Moxie Marlinspike, declared, “Privacy is at an all-time low, and surveillance is at an all-time high.” Signal was intended as the antidote. *** This show is a part of the Podglomerate network, a company that produces, distributes, and monetizes podcasts. We encourage you to visit the website and sign up for our newsletter for more information about our shows, launches, and events. For more information on how The Podglomerate treats data, please see our Privacy Policy.    Since you're listening to Rocketship, we'd like to suggest you also try other Podglomerate shows surrounding entrepreneurship, business, and careers like Creative Elements and Freelance to Founder.