

However, it should be acknowledged that your child may still be exposed to inappropriate content by their known contacts. By restricting who your child can access on the platform, your child is less likely to experience language or content that is not suitable for their age.

Features like ‘Disappearing messages’ and ‘View once media’ may be used as a way of sharing inappropriate content on the app so you should monitor these. It is possible your child may stumble across inappropriate content in the form of bad language or mature content in their messages. Like other messaging apps, a lot of personal stories, messages and pictures are shared by users on Signal. The use of end-to-end encryption means some users feel it is more secure for sending or receiving sensitive information or private content. There are several interesting and fun features that young people can use to connect with each other, including stickers, ‘View once media’ and ‘Disappearing messages’. Users can communicate in a variety of ways, including texts and video calls, with the security of end-to-end encryption. Signal is a popular messaging app for those looking for enhanced privacy and security. How children and young people use the app The minimum age restriction for Signal users is 13 however, Signal does not have any rigorous age verification methods.įind out more about age ratings in our ‘ A parent and carer’s guide to age ratings of apps and games’. Users need a UK mobile number to set up an account and it now allows users to change their mobile number without it having an effect on their existing chats and messages. A key feature of Signal is the privacy it offers to its users, where conversations are kept secure through end-to-end encryption and the app developers make the promise of no advertising or tracking. Users can use the built-in image editing tool when sending pictures or designing encrypted sticker packs, and they can even customise alerts for each contact. The app allows users to send messages or make calls to their phone contacts either individually or in group chats.

Signal is a free instant messaging app that allows its users to communicate via text, video and audio calls.
