Signal has become one of the standards for encrypted communications, albeit primarily for text and voice-based conversations. Now the popular messaging app is branching out by i ntroducing video chat —though there are questions about whether the new method of connecting is as secure as the rest of the app.
The video capabilities of Signal will makes use of CallKit, an application program interface (API) introduced by Apple in iOS 10 that aims to standardize communications on the operating system. It provides an app like Signal conveniences like allowing calls to be answered from the lock screen and listing calls in a user’s “recent calls” list.
However in introducing the feature through Apple’s API, Signal has opened up new questions about the security of communications on its platform.
The encryption of text and voice conversations through Signal is generally considered to be airtight—the Signal Protocol from app creator Open Whisper Systems is endorsed by whistleblower Edward Snowden and is used by Facebook-owned WhatsApp.
By using CallKit, video conversations are not necessarily as secure. Open Whisper Systems is reportedly still assessing CallKit to make sure it’s not putting any user data at risk, but the feature from Apple may collect more information than users of Signal are used to or comfortable with.
CallKit may sync some user data to iCloud, Apple’s cloud-based storage system, including details like who a user was talking to and how long they spoke for. For some users this may be too much data to surrender to a third-party source like Apple.
How To Make Video Calls On Signal
For now, video calling and CallKit support are entirely optional in Signal. Users will have to opt in to the features to make use of them.
To do so, users should fire up Signal and head to the settings menu by tapping the gear shape in the upper lefthand corner of the app. From there, tap the Advanced menu. This will display a number of options that can be turned on and off, including video calling.
Turn on the option labeled Enable Video Calling. This will make it possible for users to have encrypted video conversations with other users who have turned on the feature.
CallKit will also be active for users on devices running iOS 10. An option to enable or disable this feature will also be made available, and users who don’t wish to risk the chance of sending user information to iCloud should choose not to enable it. CallKit won’t function unless both users on a call have it enabled so even if you’re chatting with someone who uses CallKit, your information won’t be stored.
Users may wish to disable iCloud backups to make sure their information isn’t stored on Apple’s servers. To do so, open the iOS Settings app, go to the General menu, and select Storage and iCloud Usage.
From here, tap the Manage Storage option under the iCloud header, then check the device that Signal is installed on under Backups. This will display all apps that are backed up on iCloud. Find Signal and disable the backup.
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