Signal has introduced a new screen security feature on Windows 11 that blocks screenshots by default, aiming to protect user privacy from Microsoft’s Recall feature.
The update, now active in the Signal Desktop app, prevents Windows from capturing screenshots of Signal chats. “Signal Desktop now includes support for a new ‘Screen security’ setting that is designed to help prevent your own computer from capturing screenshots of your Signal chats on Windows,” the company announced. This protection is enabled by default for Windows 11 users.
The move comes in response to Microsoft’s Recall feature, announced in 2024 for Copilot+ PCs. Recall takes automatic screenshots every few seconds and stores them locally in encrypted form. Microsoft has emphasized that the snapshots remain on the user’s device and that it cannot access the data. The company also claims the feature was built with privacy in mind and allows users to manage which apps or content Recall monitors.
Despite these assurances, privacy experts have raised concerns about potential misuse. While Microsoft allows users to pause or delete snapshots and exclude certain apps or websites, the broader implications have drawn criticism.
Signal responded by enabling screen security as an additional safeguard, explaining that Microsoft’s changes forced their hand. “Although Microsoft made several adjustments over the past twelve months in response to critical feedback, the revamped version of Recall still places any content that’s displayed within privacy-preserving apps like Signal at risk,” the company said.
With screen security active, attempts to take screenshots of Signal will only capture a blank image. However, this feature could interfere with accessibility tools such as screen readers and magnifiers. Users can disable the feature through the app’s settings, but only after receiving a warning and confirming the action to prevent unintentional changes.
This protection applies only to the Windows 11 version of Signal Desktop. It does not affect how screenshots or accessibility tools behave on macOS or Linux.
Signal concluded its announcement by urging AI developers to consider privacy more thoughtfully. “People who care about privacy shouldn’t be forced to sacrifice accessibility upon the altar of AI aspirations,” the company stated.
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