Introduction
Signal, a messaging app known for its strong encryption and commitment to user privacy, has become a popular choice for individuals seeking secure communication. However, the app’s requirement for users to provide a phone number during registration poses a challenge for privacy-conscious individuals. This article explores the difficulties of obtaining an anonymous Signal account and provides a step-by-step guide to achieving it.
The Problem with Phone Numbers
While Signal’s end-to-end encryption and minimal data storage make it an attractive option for private communication, the app’s reliance on phone numbers has raised concerns. Signal can reveal phone numbers in response to subpoena requests, and security incidents have occurred due to this requirement. Additionally, the cost of implementing phone number verification amounts to over $6 million annually for Signal.
Signal justifies the need for phone numbers as a means of contact discovery and spam prevention. However, other encrypted messaging platforms like Session and Wire do not require phone numbers for registration.
Finding a Working Pay Phone
To bypass Signal’s phone number requirement, alternative methods are necessary. One option is obtaining a secondary number through temporary SIM cards, virtual eSIMs, or virtual numbers. However, these approaches often involve complex setups and may not always be successful.
The author of this article embarked on a quest to register for Signal using a pay phone, aiming for a free and anonymous alternative. However, finding a working pay phone in the modern era proved challenging.
The Journey to Anonymity
The author initially relied on outdated lists of pay phones but soon realized their inaccuracy. Online suggestions and community forums also failed to provide reliable information. Determined to find a functional pay phone, the author resorted to opportunism, keeping an eye out for pay phones during daily routines.
Finally, success came at a small regional airport where a bay of pay phones was discovered. By following a step-by-step process, the author managed to set up a Signal account using the pay phone’s number.
The Step-by-Step Guide
For those interested in setting up an anonymous Signal account, the following steps can be followed:
1. Obtain a phone, either an old device or a dedicated burner phone without an active phone number.
2. Locate a working pay phone. This may require persistence and opportunism.
3. Find the pay phone’s phone number. If not displayed on the phone itself, call 1-800-444-4444 to retrieve it.
4. Ensure the pay phone can receive incoming calls. This can be tested by calling the pay phone’s number from a neighboring phone.
5. Enter the pay phone number into Signal during registration. Initially, Signal will attempt to send a verification code via SMS, but after a few minutes, the option to receive the code via a voice call will become available.
6. Answer the call from the pay phone and input the confirmation code into Signal.
7. Set up a PIN and enable Registration Lock in the Signal app to secure the account.
Conclusion
While Signal’s requirement for phone numbers during registration may pose challenges for those seeking anonymity, it is possible to create an anonymous Signal account using a pay phone. By following a step-by-step guide and persistently searching for working pay phones, individuals can enjoy the privacy and security benefits of Signal without compromising their anonymity.
