Signal Threatens to Leave UK and Sweden Over Encryption Backdoor Mandates

Signal President Meredith Whittaker stated the platform would exit any jurisdiction that mandates encryption backdoors rather than compromise user security. The UK's April 2026 deadline under the Investigatory Powers Act and Sweden's March deadline are forcing the issue. Apple has already withdrawn encrypted backup services from the UK. The UK's National Security Technology Centre issued guidance suggesting that building apps like Signal could constitute 'hostile activity.'