Signal Rolls Out 'Screen Security' to Block Recall feature on Windows 11
It prevents screenshots and recording, ensuring private conversations stay truly private.
If you’ve ever used Signal, the open-source messaging app, you probably did so because it promised privacy. Now, it is trying to deliver on that promise in the face of one of Windows 11’s most controversial features, Recall.
The encrypted messaging app has rolled out a new Screen Security feature for its Windows app. On the surface, it simply blocks your device from taking screenshots when Signal is open. But dig deeper, and this move is a direct response to Microsoft’s Recall feature, which logs everything that happens on your PC screen for later reference.
Louis Eriakha
To stop that from happening, Signal took an unusual route: it flagged itself as DRM-protected software. Why? Because apps under that category, like Netflix or Hulu, can’t be screen-recorded or captured in screenshots.
This feature is enabled by default, though you can turn it off if needed, for example, if you use a screen reader. In a blog post, Signal noted that this approach isn’t ideal, but necessary, stating that “Apps like Signal shouldn’t have to implement ‘one weird trick’ to protect user privacy.” The company also expressed hope that platform-level tools will eventually offer more flexible privacy options without requiring technical workarounds.
This isn’t the first time Windows has been accused of crossing the line. Back in 2015, privacy advocates raised concerns over Windows 10’s telemetry data collection. Today, with Recall, the stakes feel even higher. Microsoft claims Recall will boost productivity, but it could also open the door to sensitive data being stored, searchable, and potentially misused, intentionally or not.
While Recall is still rolling out to Copilot+ PCs and isn’t universally available yet, the backlash has been brewing. Although earlier this year, Microsoft responded to the criticism by making Recall opt-in, requiring users to manually enable it via Settings > Privacy & Security > Recall & Snapshots. They also ensured data is stored locally, not shared with Microsoft or third parties, and added identity verification for access. However, critics claim this move still isn't enough to safeguard privacy, thereby pushing the likes of Signal to act. Signal’s move highlights a growing unease in the industry: AI can enhance user experience, but it shouldn’t bulldoze privacy in the process.
As privacy-focused apps take the lead in building digital safeguards, the pressure is now on Microsoft and others to offer tools that protect users by design, not just as an afterthought.
Louis Eriakha
