How to verify a Signal contact

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read

Expert Verified

Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To verify a Signal contact, you can use the in-app verification feature, which allows you to confirm the identity of your contacts through a unique verification code. This process enhances security and ensures that you are communicating with the intended person.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin verifying a Signal contact, ensure you meet the following requirements:

•A smartphone with the Signal app installed (available for iOS and Android).
•An active internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
•The phone number of the contact you wish to verify.
•Permissions to access contacts on your device.

Method 1: In-App Verification

This method is the primary way to verify a Signal contact within the app. It is straightforward and ensures that you are communicating securely.

•Step 1: Open the Signal app on your device.
•Step 2: Navigate to the chat of the contact you want to verify.
•Step 3: Tap on the contact's name at the top of the chat screen to open their profile.
•Step 4: Select 'Verify' or 'Verify Identity' (this may vary by version).
•Step 5: You will see a QR code and a verification code. Share this code with your contact to confirm their identity.
•Step 6: Ask your contact to enter the verification code in their Signal app to complete the verification process.
•Step 7: Once verified, you will see a green checkmark next to their name indicating a successful verification.
•Step 8: If verification fails, ensure that both you and your contact are using the latest version of Signal.

For Windows 11

If you are using Signal Desktop on Windows 11, follow these steps:

•Step 1: Open Signal Desktop and log in with your mobile device.
•Step 2: Click on the contact you want to verify from the left sidebar.
•Step 3: Click on the contact's name at the top to open their profile.
•Step 4: Click 'Verify' and follow the same steps as above to share the verification code.

For Windows 10

For users on Windows 10, the steps are similar but with slight interface differences:

•Step 1: Launch Signal Desktop and connect it to your mobile device.
•Step 2: Select the contact from the chat list.
•Step 3: Click on their name to access the profile.
•Step 4: Click 'Verify' and share the verification code as described above.

Method 2: Manual Verification

If the in-app verification fails, you can manually verify a contact by directly communicating the verification code.

•Step 1: Open the Signal app and go to the chat with the contact.
•Step 2: Ask your contact to share their verification code with you directly.
•Step 3: Once you receive the code, go to their profile and select 'Verify'.
•Step 4: Enter the received verification code and confirm.
•Step 5: If successful, a green checkmark will appear next to their name.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the verification process, consider the following solutions:

•Error: 'Verification code not recognized' - Solution: Ensure that the code is entered correctly and that both parties are using the latest version of Signal.
•Issue: 'No internet connection' - Fix: Check your Wi-Fi or mobile data settings and ensure you are connected.
•Problem: 'Contact not found' - Workaround: Verify that the contact's phone number is saved correctly in your device's contacts.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Here are some tips for power users to streamline the verification process:

•Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + N (Windows) / Command + N (Mac) - Quickly start a new chat.
•Command line: signal-cli - Use this command-line interface for advanced Signal features.
•Hidden feature: Group verification - You can verify multiple contacts in a group chat by sharing the verification code with all members.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To ensure the highest level of security, always verify contacts before sharing sensitive information.