Encrypted messaging platform Signal is enhancing its Windows application with a new feature known as Screen Security. This innovative addition serves a crucial purpose: it prevents the computer from capturing screenshots of messages while the app is in use. In a recent blog post, Signal pointed to Windows 11’s Recall feature as a catalyst for this development.
Understanding Screen Security
Signal elaborated on its approach, explaining that the application is now flagged as protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM). This designation ensures that any content classified under DRM will not be recorded in screenshots on Windows devices. This mechanism mirrors the way streaming services like Netflix display content as a black box when captured in screenshots.
By default, Screen Security will be activated, although users have the option to disable it if necessary. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals who rely on screen readers or other accessibility tools to interact with the application.
In its statement, Signal expressed a hope that AI developers working on features like Recall will consider the broader implications of their innovations more thoughtfully. The company emphasized that applications such as Signal should not need to resort to “one weird trick” to safeguard user privacy and maintain the integrity of their services in the absence of adequate developer tools.
The Recall Feature’s Controversy
The Recall feature in Windows 11 has faced a challenging and protracted development journey. While this AI-powered tool promises to enhance productivity by allowing users to record everything displayed on their screens, it has also sparked significant concerns regarding privacy and security. Despite Microsoft beginning to roll out Recall to Copilot+ PCs, skepticism remains among users about its readiness for widespread adoption.
