What is Signal? The app everyone is ditching WhatsApp for

WHATSAPP has faced backlash after introducing new privacy laws that could result in your account being deactivated if you don't click agree.

The policies have been blasted as 'draconian' and some people are now switching to rival app Signal.

Encrypted messaging app Signal has reportedly seen a surge in signups after a recent WhatsApp popup informed users of the new privacy rules.

The news rules apply to all users but people outside the UK and the EU will also need to agree to more data sharing with Facebook.

If affected users don't accept the new privacy terms then they'll lose access to their WhatsApp account from February 8.

Many people have seen the new WhatsApp terms popup already and clicked 'agree' without fully reading the terms.

The UK and EU pop up doesn't mention the Facebook data sharing changes.

The personal data that some users will have to agree to share with the tech giant includes their phone number.

Even billionaire Elon Musk has tweeted to tell people to use Signal.

This is thought to have encouraged a huge wave of signups.

Signal recently tweeted: "Verification codes are currently delayed across several providers because so many new people are trying to join Signal right now (we can barely register our excitement).

"We are working with carriers to resolve this as quickly as possible. Hang in there."

Signal is deemed to be the most secure digital communication method on the open market.

It gives users the option of being able to erase their own messages within a set period of time, from a week down to just five seconds.

Last year, the Sun reported that members of the UK Government, including the Prime Minister, had signed up to Signal.

Disappearing messages are liked by senior Government figures because they help limit leaks.

But the option also makes it impossible to seize their messages later by Freedom of Information requests or a judge’s order.