Signal's origins and potential government ties raise concerns

Signal, the encrypted messaging app trusted by millions worldwide, has come under scrutiny for its origins and potential ties to the American intelligence community.

Originally funded in part by a $3 million grant from the government-sponsored Open Technology Fund (OTF), Signal was intended to provide encrypted communication tools to internet freedom defenders globally. However, some insiders argue that OTF's connection to U.S. intelligence runs deeper than it appears, raising questions about Signal's relationship with the government.

Moreover, Signal Foundation's current chairman, Katherine Maher, has a background in U.S.-backed regime change efforts during the Arab Spring. As CEO of the Wikimedia Foundation and now of National Public Radio, Maher has advocated for online censorship and coordinated with governments to suppress dissenting voices.

Maher's appointment as chair of the Signal Foundation, reportedly facilitated by Meredith Whittaker, who shares connections with Maher to OTF and other nonprofits, has raised concerns about the app's trustworthiness. Critics argue that Maher's past support for censorship and apparent intelligence connections cast doubt on Signal's security and independence.

For American users, including conservative dissidents, who rely on Signal for secure communication, Maher's involvement should be approached with caution.

An active discussion broke out under the post, including Elon Musk and other prominent figures.