The stalking and spying of calls has the world abuzz with opinions and concerns. Fortunately, a new app has been released on the iOS which provides users with some peace of mind.
The Signal app can be used to make free and encrypted calls across iPhones. Furthermore, the app even supports making calls to Android phones as well.
An open source application developed for iPhone, Signal enables users to make completely encrypted calls over the internet using data connections. The application does this by supporting the ZRTP, a very widely known voice communication platform, which is open source. Signal is very friendly to the user and does not require any passcode or login. The phone number of the device is identified as the login and a verification code is sent to the same device. Once entered by the user, the app is good to go. It automatically adds contacts from the address book and provides for a smooth and easy experience to the user.
Any other user in the contact list who is also using Signal will be indicated. If users try to make a call out to someone who does not have the app installed, a message will be sent to the recipient asking them to download the application. For complete security, the app generates and displays a couple of words to both of the users at the start of the call. If the words are the same, then the call is completely secure and can be continued with. However, the words not being the same will mean that there is a third party trying to interfere with or is tampering with the call. Users can decide to terminate the call if they find this to be the case.
The Signal app also allows iPhone users to make calls to Android devices which have a similar application, RedPhone installed on them. The development team behind both these encrypted calling apps is Open Whisper Systems. It is believed that soon both these apps will merge into one. The team is also reportedly developing a browser extension featuring the same application. Signal is only capable of making encrypted calls and the developers state that work is in progress for an encrypted text messaging application, which will be compatible with TextSecure on Android devices.
The quality of encrypted calls is just as great as the normal calls made. Plus, they provide the added advantage of making calls over the internet at a very cheap rate. The application also notifies users whenever there is an incoming call and need not be required to run in the background all the time.
While the open source protocol, ZRTP is also used by other encryption applications, Signal is completely free as opposed to the likes of Silent Circle, which charges users a monthly fee of $20.
Signal will prove to be very effective to users who want to enjoy the privacy of their calls, especially when abroad. The application is very easy to install and use and offers users a completely secure experience.