Signal Tops App Charts in Netherlands: Privacy Concerns Fuel Surge

Signal surges in the Netherlands amid privacy fears and Big Tech distrust post-2025 US election.
Matilda
Signal Tops App Charts in Netherlands: Privacy Concerns Fuel Surge
Privacy-focused messaging app Signal has been flying high in the Dutch app stores this past month, often sitting at the top as the most downloaded free app on iOS and Android across all categories, per data from multiple app-tracking platforms such as Sensor Tower. Image Credits:Artur Widak/NurPhoto / Getty Images     The app has experienced surges in popularity over the years, often in response to policy changes at rivals like WhatsApp or geopolitical events. That’s because Signal has made a name for itself as a more privacy-friendly option — it’s operated by a not-for-profit foundation (albeit one based in the U.S.) rather than a private business focused on monetizing data. Moreover, Signal tracks minimal metadata. In 2025, with a new U.S. president empowered by Big Tech’s warm embrace, it’s not surprising that digital privacy tools are having a moment — particularly in Europe, which has attracted President Trump’s ire. But what’s especially eye-catching this time around is Signal’s pro…