A Secure Messaging App in the Spotlight
In a world where cyberattacks are increasing daily, small businesses need to scrutinize every tool they use—including messaging apps. The Signal app, known for its end-to-end encryption, is often promoted as a gold standard in secure communication. But is it really safe for business use? And what risks should Florida-based companies be aware of?
Matt Rose, Chief Experience Officer at Tech Rage IT, addressed these very concerns on a recent FOX 35 Orlando segment. As a Central Florida-based managed services provider specializing in cybersecurity and IT support, Tech Rage IT knows firsthand what can happen when businesses assume their communications are safe.
What Makes Signal So Appealing?
Signal is an open-source, encrypted messaging app used globally by privacy-conscious individuals, activists, and journalists. It offers:
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End-to-End Encryption: Messages, calls, and shared media are secured from sender to recipient.
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No Ads or Trackers: Signal doesn't monetize user data.
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Minimal Data Storage: Only stores registration time and last connection.
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Open-Source Code: Allows security experts to audit and verify its safety.
Sounds bulletproof, right? Not so fast.
Matt Rose on FOX 35: "No App Is 100% Secure"
During his FOX 35 appearance, Matt Rose made one thing clear:
"Signal prides itself on being a leader in providing a secure platform for messaging, which is why the government allows communication using Signal. However, no public app is 100 percent secure and, frankly, the issue is that devices which use Signal are easily hacked."
The Signal platform may be secure, but if the device it's installed on is compromised, all bets are off. That's where small businesses need to focus their attention.
Real-World Risk: What Happened With the Trump Administration?
The recent Signal controversy involving members of the Trump Administration highlights how even secure platforms can go wrong. A classified conversation was mistakenly shared with a journalist who was unknowingly included in a group chat. The breach wasn't technical; it was human error. And that's the catch—your business is only as secure as your weakest user or device.
Why Small Businesses in Central Florida Should Care
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are popular targets for cybercriminals. Here's why relying solely on Signal isn't enough:
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BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Employees often use personal phones for work, increasing attack vectors.
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Poor User Training: Staff may not recognize phishing or social engineering threats.
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Lack of IT Oversight: Smaller businesses might not monitor messaging app usage.
As Matt Rose explains, "It's not just about what app you use; it's about how it's used, who's using it, and on what device."
Best Practices for Using Signal in a Business Environment
If your business uses Signal or any encrypted messaging app, implement these best practices:
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Enforce Device Security
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Require screen locks, antivirus, and mobile device management (MDM).
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Limit App Access
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Restrict who can install or use Signal for business conversations.
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Establish Clear Usage Policies
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Define what should and shouldn't be shared via encrypted apps.
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Train Your Team
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Conduct regular cybersecurity awareness training.
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Use Layers of Security
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Combine Signal with email security, endpoint protection, and regular audits.
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Tech Rage IT's Cybersecurity Approach: A Multilayered Defense
Tech Rage IT supports small businesses across Central Florida with a proactive, layered cybersecurity strategy:
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24/7 Monitoring and Threat Detection
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Endpoint Protection and Device Management
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Email Filtering and Phishing Defense
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Compliance Services for Regulated Industries
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Cloud Security and Data Backup
If your team is using messaging apps like Signal, but you haven't thought about securing the endpoints, the network, and the people using them, your business is exposed.
Local Insight. National Relevance.
Tech Rage IT supports small business owners who want to stay competitive without getting blindsided by tech failures or security gaps. As the tech world evolves—with tools like AI, IoT, and encrypted messaging becoming everyday necessities—the need for real-world, human-centered cybersecurity guidance has never been more urgent.
Conclusion: Signal Is a Tool, Not a Total Solution
The Signal app is a powerful part of the secure communication puzzle. But it's not a silver bullet. As Matt Rose shared on FOX 35, businesses need a broader, smarter, and more human-aware strategy.
If you're relying on Signal or any tech tool without reviewing your full cybersecurity posture, it's time to rethink.
Need a Cybersecurity Checkup?
Find out if your devices, apps, and people are really protected. Book your free IT Discovery Call with Tech Rage IT today: Schedule here
Don't wait for a breach to find out where you're vulnerable.
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