In recent days, Signal, the encrypted messaging application known for its robust privacy features, has been thrust into the spotlight after Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, revealed being mistakenly added to a confidential U.S. government group chat discussing military operations against Yemen's Houthis.

This unprecedented leak raises critical questions about the app’s security, effectiveness, and future in the United States. But what exactly is Signal, who developed it, and how secure is it really?

Read more: Fact-Check: The Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg in Top Secret Yemen War Chat

What is Signal, and How Did it Begin?

the Signal app
the Signal app

Signal is an encrypted messaging service designed to ensure user privacy through end-to-end encryption. Developed by Signal Messenger LLC, it was founded by cryptographer Moxie Marlinspike and entrepreneur Brian Acton in 2018. Acton, notably, co-founded WhatsApp before leaving Facebook due to disputes over privacy policies and data handling (Forbes, 2021).

The origins of Signal trace back further to Whisper Systems, established in 2010 by Marlinspike and Stuart Anderson. After Twitter acquired Whisper Systems in 2011, Marlinspike left and later founded the independent Signal Foundation with Acton. The nonprofit foundation aimed to deliver secure, private communication free from corporate surveillance and government intrusion.

Signal’s Key Features and Development

Did Trump Administration Share Top Secret War Plans With The Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg
Did Trump Administration Share Top Secret War Plans With The Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg

Signal has gained a substantial following among privacy-conscious users due to its strong encryption standards. Its key features include:

End-to-end encryption: Ensuring messages, calls, and shared media are only accessible to intended recipients.

Open-source transparency: Signal’s source code is publicly available, allowing independent experts to verify its security practices.

Minimal data storage: Signal retains very limited metadata, further protecting users’ privacy.

Today, Signal serves millions of users globally, including journalists, activists, and government officials. Its popularity surged notably in early 2021 when WhatsApp announced controversial privacy changes, leading millions to switch to Signal and other alternatives like Telegram.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Signal

Signal’s primary strength lies in its robust commitment to privacy and security. Security expert Bruce Schneier has praised Signal as one of the best secure messaging apps available, highlighting its strong cryptographic design and user privacy commitments.

Strengths:

  • Excellent encryption and secure protocols.

  • User privacy prioritized over data monetization.

  • Trusted by prominent privacy advocates, including Edward Snowden.

Weaknesses:

  • Occasional usability concerns, particularly for less tech-savvy users.

  • Challenges in managing accidental user inclusions, as seen in the recent high-profile leak.

  • Limited group moderation tools compared to other messaging apps.

Pete Hegseth: Pete Hegseth: 'Nobody Was Texting War Plans' - Denies Jeffrey Goldberg's Claim

Signal’s Role in the Yemen War Chat Leak Controversy

The controversy surrounding Signal intensified after Goldberg’s accidental inclusion in a private chat group consisting of top Trump administration officials. Goldberg’s article published on March 24, 2025, detailed the discussions, alleging sensitive war plans were shared informally. Although the White House confirmed the chat’s authenticity, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth denied sharing classified details via Signal, raising broader questions about the platform’s security practices.

This incident highlighted an inherent challenge in using apps like Signal for sensitive governmental communication. While Signal’s encryption remains strong, human error—such as mistakenly adding unauthorized participants—can undermine even the most robust encryption protocols.

Is Signal Banned or Restricted in the United States?

Currently, Signal is not banned in the United States. Instead, it is widely used, even recommended by certain government departments and privacy advocacy groups. However, the Pentagon specifically prohibits the use of Signal and similar apps to handle "non-public DoD information" because of previous attempts by Russia-linked spies to compromise accounts.

Security Warnings and Concerns Around Signal

Despite Signal’s secure design, security warnings and concerns periodically surface:

• Violation of Established Protocols: Security experts emphasize that using Signal for classified governmental communications violates established protocols for handling classified information. A former senior intelligence official remarked, "They broke every procedure known to man about protecting operational material before a military strike. You have a total breakdown in security about a military operation."

• Espionage Concerns: Some former officials raised alarms that mishandling sensitive national defense information via platforms like Signal could potentially constitute a violation of the Espionage Act.

• User Error Risks: As demonstrated in the Yemen chat incident, the primary risk often lies not in Signal’s encryption but in human error—accidental inclusion, improper user management, or careless handling of sensitive content.

• Potential Device Vulnerabilities: Security experts warn that Signal’s security heavily depends on device security. A compromised phone or computer can still expose Signal messages despite robust encryption.

• Regulatory Pressure: As Signal grows more popular, governments may push for regulatory changes or backdoor access. Founder Moxie Marlinspike has consistently argued against weakening encryption, emphasizing that backdoors intended for lawful purposes inevitably introduce vulnerabilities exploitable by malicious actors.

Signal’s Future

Cybersecurity analysts argue that despite controversies, Signal remains a vital tool in the digital privacy landscape. Privacy advocate and former NSA contractor Edward Snowden previously stated, "I use Signal every day. It's my go-to messaging app" (The Guardian, 2020). This endorsement underscores Signal’s reputation among privacy-focused communities.

However, experts acknowledge Signal must continually evolve to balance usability, security, and resilience against accidental disclosures. Dr. Margaret Collins, a cybersecurity expert from Georgetown University, advises that governments and organizations handling sensitive operations must complement Signal with rigorous protocols and clear user guidelines to mitigate inadvertent security breaches.

Conclusion

The Yemen chat incident illustrates that while Signal’s technical security remains uncompromised, real-world security hinges significantly on human vigilance and careful usage. This incident should prompt organizations to reassess not only the technology they adopt but also the operational protocols governing sensitive communications.

Signal continues to set a high standard for digital privacy and encryption technology. Yet, its developers must address user experience challenges, particularly those related to group management and accidental disclosures, to maintain user trust and relevance.