Signal has released an important update to its Windows app aimed at protecting user chats from Microsoft’s Recall feature, which automatically captures screenshots of user activity. Despite Microsoft’s recent changes to the feature, Signal warns that Recall still records content that may be sensitive.
To address this concern, Signal introduced a new setting called Screen Security, designed to prevent the system from taking screenshots of the content displayed within the app. This option can be enabled by navigating to Signal Settings > Privacy > Screen Security. By doing so, users can shield their communications from unwanted visual logging.
The update highlights the growing concern about privacy in AI-driven tools like Recall. Although the feature is meant to help users “go back in time” and retrieve past actions, its method—automatically capturing and storing screen content—raises questions about consent and control over private data.
Accessibility Trade-Offs and Developer Concerns
Signal cautioned that enabling the new Screen Security setting may interfere with certain features, particularly screen readers. This trade-off reflects the challenge of balancing privacy enhancements with accessibility needs.
In its blog post, Signal voiced its hope that developers of systems like Recall will take more time to consider the broader implications of such features. The company pointed out the lack of suitable developer tools to manage privacy, stating, “Apps like Signal shouldn’t have to implement ‘one weird trick’ to preserve the privacy and integrity of their services.”
Microsoft initially paused the rollout of Recall following public backlash, notes NIXSolutions. In April, the company resumed testing through its preview channel, now offering users the option to pause the feature manually.
While this is a step forward, the privacy community remains cautious. Signal’s recent move underscores the need for more comprehensive tools and thoughtful design in AI-powered features. We’ll keep you updated as more integrations and privacy responses emerge.