Signal, the end-to-end encrypted messaging app, has seen a surge in popularity, becoming the app of choice for a wide range of users, from Elon Musk’s government restructuring team to protesters opposing his initiatives. Known for its commitment to privacy, Signal offers secure communication, attracting both privacy-conscious individuals and those with more contentious political agendas.
Widespread Adoption Across Political and Government Spheres
Signal, founded over a decade ago, has emerged as the gold standard for encrypted communication. Mobile security experts widely consider it the safest platform for private conversations. The app’s adoption has been rapid, especially among government officials, lawmakers, and corporate leaders who seek to protect their sensitive discussions. Data from Sensor Tower shows that U.S. downloads of Signal in early 2025 were up 16% from the previous quarter and 25% compared to the same period in 2024.
In Washington, D.C., the app has become ubiquitous. Many congressional aides and political appointees now use Signal, with the phrase “Let’s take this to Signal” signaling that the conversation is about to turn private. A review by the Associated Press found that more than 1,100 government officials across all 50 states are now using the app.
Signal’s Role in Elon Musk’s Government Efforts and Opposition Movements
Musk’s efforts to overhaul the federal bureaucracy, particularly through his Department of Government Efficiency, have been coordinated via Signal, according to reports from the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. Musk himself has used the app for confidential discussions, including communications surrounding his 2022 purchase of Twitter. Recently, he used Signal to speak with Ashley St. Clair, a right-wing social media personality and mother of his children.
On the other side of the political spectrum, Signal has become a key tool for those opposing Trump’s agenda. Civil service whistleblowers, in particular, have turned to the app to avoid surveillance from Trump appointees. Three employees recently fired by the administration shared with Reuters that their colleagues are rapidly downloading the app to discuss sensitive matters without fear of government monitoring.
Government and Corporate Endorsement of Signal
Some governments have formally endorsed the use of Signal for secure communication. In 2020, the European Commission encouraged its staff to use the app for public instant messaging. While the U.S. government has not issued such explicit guidance, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommended that senior government officials switch to encrypted communication apps like Signal in a guidance published late last year. The U.S. Senate has also approved the app for use by legislative staff.
Signal’s Privacy and Its Risks
The appeal of Signal is its privacy protections, which the company claims gather only the bare minimum amount of user data. However, these same protections have made the app attractive to individuals with less-than-lawful intentions. Criminals, including drug dealers, have increasingly used Signal for illicit communications, as noted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in a 2022 report. Furthermore, the rioters involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack also used Signal to coordinate their efforts, according to court filings.
Conclusion
Signal’s rise in popularity across both political and social movements highlights the growing demand for secure, encrypted communication. From the Trump administration’s reshaping of government agencies to protests against his policies, Signal is playing a central role in facilitating private conversations. As concerns over privacy and surveillance continue to rise, the app’s importance is likely to keep growing in both political and criminal circles.
