By Default, Signal Doesn't Recall
a year ago
- #Microsoft Recall
- #Signal
- #privacy
- Signal Desktop introduces a 'Screen security' setting to prevent screenshots of chats on Windows, enabled by default on Windows 11.
- The feature aims to protect messages from Microsoft Recall, which captures and stores app screenshots in a searchable database.
- Microsoft Recall faced backlash for privacy concerns, leading to adjustments, but still poses risks to privacy-preserving apps like Signal.
- Signal's 'Screen security' uses DRM flags to block screenshots, similar to movie DRM, to prevent Recall from capturing chat content.
- The setting can be disabled but requires confirmation, balancing privacy with accessibility needs like screen readers.
- Signal criticizes Microsoft for not providing granular controls for app developers to protect privacy against AI features like Recall.
- The integration of AI agents with broad permissions threatens privacy-preserving apps, requiring OS vendors to offer better tools for developers.
- Signal emphasizes the importance of privacy in messaging apps, comparing them to incognito browsing windows excluded from Recall by default.
- The 'Screen security' feature is now rolling out for Signal Desktop on Windows, with thanks to the beta testing community.