The Digital Security Digest, by Freedom of the Press Foundation (FPF), is a weekly newsletter with security tips that keep you, your sources, and your devices safe. If someone shared this newsletter with you, please subscribe here.

For years, Signal, the end-to-end encrypted messaging app, has allowed users to link their phone to other devices. Over a decade ago, the developers introduced the ability to link accounts to a desktop device, and similar capabilities were extended to iPads in late 2019. In the past, these linked devices still could only be attached to one Signal account on your smartphone. The most recent versions of Signal are now rolling out support for even more devices, allowing users to link existing accounts to both Android smartphones and tablets. Signal said in a blog post that it is also “expanding linked device support on iOS so you can link an iPhone to your Signal account in addition to our ongoing support for iPads.” Read more about Signal’s latest updates.

What you can do

  • Check out our Signal resources. If you haven’t done so already, read our guide to get started using Signal. And for those who are already using it, read our guide to locking down Signal.
  • More devices isn’t always better. Because each piece of software you use represents a potential foothold that an attacker may exploit, we advise journalists not to install anything they don’t strictly need. Whether on a smartphone, tablet, or desktop device, the more devices with access to your Signal account, the more potential risk to your private messages. Consider whether this is something you need before linking more devices. If you do want to link additional devices, note you will need to download Signal for Android (version 8.20) or Signal for iOS (version 8.22), and follow the instructions here.
  • Download those updates. No matter how many devices you use, you’ll want to keep your devices and apps up to date to receive the newest security patches that will help protect your sensitive data, including your Signal messages. Read about the story inside your security updates.

Updates from our team

  • Next Monday, Aug. 17, our chief of security programs, Harlo Holmes, will be at California Western School of Law in San Diego, joining journalist James Stout to talk about border journalism and source protection. Learn more, and register for the event.
  • We’re looking forward to our upcoming 2026 Digital Security Clinic for documentary filmmakers, co-hosted by FPF and Field of Vision. Join us starting this Thursday, Aug. 13, for five free sessions covering essential digital security topics: risk assessment, secure communication, travel safety, footage protection, digital footprint management, and artificial intelligence in filmmaking. Sign up here.

Our team is always ready to assist journalists with digital security concerns. Reach out here, and stay safe and secure out there.

Best,
Martin

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Martin Shelton
Deputy Director of Digital Security
Freedom of the Press Foundation