Setting up Signal

Download Signal:

• • On Android: Download the app from the Google Play Store here.
  • On iPhone: Download the app from the Apple App Store here.

After an introductory screen with information about the Terms and Privacy Policy, you will see a dialogue explaining why Signal requests the “Contacts” permission on your phone.

• • On Android: Tap “Not now” to deny access
  • On iPhone: Tap “Don’t Allow” to deny access

Signal requires a working phone number to set up. While Signal doesn’t use SMS, your phone number is used to verify who you are and limit you to one account. By default, your phone number is not visible in your Signal profile.

You should create a username to share with others instead of your phone number. Gloria recommends using a username for extra anonymity.

• • On Android: Enter your phone number and tap “Continue,” then tap “OK” when asked to confirm that your number is correct.
  • On iPhone: Enter your phone number and tap “Next,” then “Yes” when asked to confirm that your number is correct.

In order to verify your phone number, you will be sent an SMS text with a six-digit code. Enter that number in.

Next up is creating a profile and a PIN. The name you choose will be shown to any contacts you have saved in your address book, when you initiate or accept new chats, and when you join new groups. While a first name (either genuine or made up) is required, the image and last name are optional. Do not enter your last name. A PIN keeps your information safe on Signal’s servers.

• • On Android: Enter your profile information in this step and tap “Next.” On the next screen, you’re asked to create a PIN. Choose a secure PIN or Passphrase and then tap “Next.” You’ll need to confirm the PIN one more time. 
  • On iPhone: The first step is to create your PIN. Choose a secure PIN or Passphrase and then tap “Next.” You’ll need to confirm the PIN one more time. Next, enter your profile information, and then tap “Next.” You will next see a prompt asking for access to your local network. This is to help transfer an account from an old phone to a new one. You can tap “Don’t Allow” if you do need to move an account over.

Tap your profile picture, then Settings > Privacy > Phone Number and tap “Who can find me by my number?” and change the setting to “Nobody.” Unless you also set up a username, nobody will be able to initiate a chat with you if you set this to “Nobody.” Once a username is set up, people will only be able to start a chat with you if they have your username. Provide this username to Gloria so we can start a chat thread with you and your host without anyone sharing identifying information.