Despite the recent WhatsApp reassurances, which states that almost nothing will change in Europe for the privacy of its users even if they accept the new privacy policy which comes into effect on February 8, many users of the Facebook group’s instant messaging platform are starting to think about change app. The alternatives are many, but Signal is among the ideal candidates if privacy is a priority.
It is proved by the facts that Signal hardly collects any data on user behavior, limiting itself to registering only the telephone number that is used to identify the user. The app, on the other hand, has everything users need: from robust end-to-end encryption (Signal takes its name from the Signal encryption protocol) the ability to create group chats. Group chats and all the contacts we have on WhatsApp, however, are a great doubt for the users of the Zuckerberg app: it is possible to transfer contacts and groups, quickly and easily, from WhatsApp to Signal? The answer is yes, here’s how.
How to install Signal
After downloading Signal and installing it, before starting to use it we will be asked for a six-digit security code that the platform will send to the number we have indicated. Due to the high number of users who are switching to Signal from WhatsApp in the last few days, the time to send the code has lengthened considerably. It takes a little patience.
The app asks for permission to make calls and access our contact list. The data granted they will stay on the app and on your phone and will not be sent to Signal’s servers, unlike what happens with WhatsApp.
How to transfer contacts and groups from WhatsApp to Signal
Once the app is installed and activated, we can use it and start transferring our contacts and groups from WhatsApp. There is no automated procedure, but doing it is quick and easy: that’s enough generate a link and send it via WhatsApp to whoever we want to migrate to Signal.
We must first create a new group (give it the same name as the former WhatsApp group, it will be more convenient) by opening the main menu of the app at the top right (the classic three dots vertically). To create a group we will have to enter at least one contact manually, for all the others it will be easier.
We open the group and open the usual menu, then we go up Group Settings> Group Link and activate it, then tap on Share e let’s copy the link that was generated.
At this point it will be enough paste that link in the WhatsApp group that we want to bring to Signal and invite everyone to click it. Those who do not yet have Signal will have to install and activate it before being able to complete the procedure that will lead them to be a new member of your Signal group.
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