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The popular private messaging app Signal has finally introduced a highly anticipated feature for its users – secure cloud backup. Initially available in beta for Android users, Signal plans to extend this feature to more users in the near future.
Secure Cloud Backup Feature Now Available on Signal Messaging App
In a recent post by Jim O’Leary, VP of Engineering at Signal, the company announced the launch of cloud backup for chats and media on the Signal platform.
Signal users have long requested a cloud backup option to safeguard their data in case of device loss or theft. With the new cloud backup feature, users can easily retrieve their Signal data using a recovery key.
O’Leary emphasized that Signal’s backup process is secure, with data encrypted end-to-end on Signal servers. This aligns with Signal’s commitment to maintaining user privacy through zero-knowledge practices.
Each user’s backup archive is protected by a unique 64-character recovery key generated on their device. This key, distinct from Signal PINs, remains confidential to the user and can be stored offline or in an online vault for safekeeping.
It’s crucial to safeguard your recovery key as it’s the only way to access your backup. Signal does not have access to this key and cannot assist in its recovery if lost.
The cloud backup feature is currently optional, automatically backing up user data every 24 hours. Older archives are replaced by the latest version, ensuring that only the most recent data is stored. Deleted messages and media are also eventually removed from the backup.
Signal offers the backup feature under a freemium model, providing 100 MiB of storage for messages and media for 45 days. Users can opt for a paid plan at $1.99 per month for extended storage beyond 45 days, covering the costs of secure storage for large data volumes.
Cloud Backup Feature Now in Signal for Android (Beta)
The cloud backup feature is currently available in the beta version of Signal for Android. Signal plans to test the feature further before rolling it out to stable releases, including iOS and Desktop versions.
Future updates will allow users to choose the storage location for their backup archives, ensuring privacy without compromise.
Signal, known for its strong privacy stance, has seen a surge in popularity following concerns over WhatsApp’s privacy policy changes. With user-friendly features and enhanced security measures, Signal has become the preferred choice for privacy-conscious users.
By introducing secure cloud chat backups, Signal aims to attract more users who value data privacy and security.
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