Signal Blocks Microsoft Recall from Capturing Encrypted Chats in New Privacy Update

 

In a strong stand for user privacy, the secure messaging app Signal has rolled out a crucial privacy update to its Windows 11 desktop application that directly counters Microsoft's controversial Recall feature. Recall, an AI-powered tool launched for Copilot+ PCs, allows users to retrieve past on-screen activity by capturing frequent screenshots. However, privacy advocates have raised concerns that such functionality could compromise sensitive information, especially on encrypted platforms.

To address these concerns, Signal has introduced a new Screen Security feature that blocks Microsoft Recall from capturing screenshots of private conversations. This update is enabled by default, offering out-of-the-box protection for all users on compatible systems. Signal developer Joshua Lund announced the change in a blog post, emphasizing the company’s commitment to safeguarding user data in the face of emerging AI features that may unintentionally breach privacy norms.

He said, "Although Microsoft made several adjustments over the past twelve months in response to critical feedback, the revamped version of Recall still places any content that’s displayed within privacy-preserving apps like Signal at risk. As a result, we are enabling an extra layer of protection by default on Windows 11 in order to help maintain the security of Signal Desktop on that platform even though it introduces some usability trade-offs. Microsoft has simply given us no other option."

 

The update puts Signal vs Microsoft in the spotlight, showcasing a growing divide between privacy-focused applications and broader AI-enhanced operating systems. Microsoft has already faced backlash from cybersecurity experts and the public over Recall’s potential misuse, even after the company revised the feature to improve security.

 

Signal’s proactive move aligns with its core values as a secure messaging app, ensuring that encrypted chats remain private, even as operating systems become more invasive with memory-capturing tools. As the debate over AI and privacy intensifies, Signal’s stance is likely to influence how other developers approach Microsoft AI features and similar technologies in the future.