Archive — US — techcrunch
Signal’s new Windows update prevents the system from capturing screenshots ofchats
Signal has updated its Windows app to prevent screenshots of chats to enhance privacy, citing concerns over Microsoft's Recall feature, which continuously captures screen content. This new default setting on Windows 11 blocks screenshots and aims to protect sensitive information, although it may hinder some functions like screen readers.
Key points
- Signal introduces a new update for its Windows app that prevents screenshots of chats.
- The 'screen security' setting is enabled by default in Windows 11.
- This feature is aimed at safeguarding user privacy from Microsoft's Recall feature, which captures screenshots continuously.
- Microsoft's Recall feature, initially paused due to backlash, has been tested again since April, now made opt-in.
- When the screen security setting is enabled, users receive a blank screen when attempting screenshots.
- Signal warns that some functionalities, such as screen readers, may not operate correctly with this setting enabled.
- Users can disable the setting through Signal's Privacy options but must confirm this action to prevent accidental changes.
Why it matters
- The growing concern over user privacy in tech, especially with features that can capture sensitive data.
- Historical backlash against intrusive privacy features, such as the Microsoft Recall.
- In 2025, a notable trend is the emphasis on privacy-centric features in software applications, responding to consumer demand for better data protection.
Signal's proactive measure exemplifies the increasing importance of user privacy in software development, especially in the face of potentially intrusive features from major tech companies.