Signal Says Tech Issues Due to Skyrocketing Demand

Signage for Signal Foundation and Signal Messenger LLC'sSignal app is displayed on a smartphone in an arranged photograph taken in Hong Kong, China, on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. Photographer: Lam Yik/Bloomberg

(Bloomberg) -- Signal experienced technical difficulties Friday as it attempted to keep up with demand that exceeded its “most optimistic projections.”

“Millions upon millions of new users are sending a message that privacy matters. We appreciate your patience,” the company tweeted.

The surge comes amid confusion and user backlash over a new WhatsApp privacy policy, which had its introduction delayed Friday.

Read More: WhatsApp Rival Signal Reports Growing Pains as New Users Surge