Signal Rolls Out Usernames to Keep Phone Numbers Private
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Signal has rolled out usernames so users can keep their phone numbers private and not have to share it with every contact. This fixes a longstanding criticism of Signal's reliance on phone numbers.
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By default, your phone number will now be hidden in your Signal profile unless a contact already has it saved. You can also create a unique username for discovery instead of your number.
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There is also an opt-in setting to make your number completely undiscoverable, even to contacts who already have it. This adds an extra layer of protection.
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The changes make it safer to communicate with untrusted contacts on Signal without revealing private phone number information.
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Phone numbers are still required for signup to prevent spam and enable address book syncing. So some anonymity is still sacrificed, but it's an improvement for many users.