This section is intended to quickly introduce chat safety considerations through some examples of tip channels currently supported by newsrooms, followed by discussion time, and finally, hands-on installation of the Signal app. Students may need time to troubleshoot, so we encourage pairing students, and being prepared to help students if they run into trouble setting it up and sending a message.
Note: You can optionally share our chat safety handout. (To make your own editable version, select File > Make a Copy)
Threat modeling
Internet and telecommunication security
45-55 minutes
End-to-end encryption is one of the most effective tools for preventing unwanted surveillance of online conversations. By using end-to-end encryption, students can feel more confident that they are communicating relatively safely.
(After class)
Have students pair on installing Signal and sending each other one message. Start by visiting https://signal.org/download/
Note: Alternatively, you can have students send you a message. If you or your students feel uncomfortable with the idea of sharing a personal phone number, note that it is possible to register on Signal using a secondary phone number using Google Voice. More details here: "Using Signal Without Giving Your Phone Number"