Fairways Fellowship Golf Group

Signal Messaging Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


1. Why do we need to switch to Signal? Can't we just keep texting like we always have?


The Fairways Fellowship Golf Group has grown to more than 20 members. Some cellular carriers limit the number of people who can reliably receive messages in a group text. When a group becomes larger than about 20 people, some members may not receive messages or replies. Signal allows everyone to receive the same message at the same time, regardless of whether they have an iPhone or Android phone.


2. What is Signal?


Signal is a free messaging app for iPhone, Android, Windows, and Mac. It lets our golf group send messages, photos, and announcements in one place.


3. Does Signal cost anything?


No. Signal is completely free.


4. Do I need to create an account?


Yes. Signal uses your mobile phone number to create your account.


5. Will everyone see my phone number?


No. Members will see the name you choose for your profile. Your phone number is not displayed to other members of the Fairways Fellowship Golf Group.


6. How do I join the Fairways Fellowship Golf Group?


  1. Install the Signal app on your phone.
  2. Complete the Signal setup and create your account.
  3. Wait for a text message from James containing the Fairways Fellowship Golf Group invitation link.
  4. Tap the invitation link.
  5. Signal will open automatically.
  6. Tap Join Group.


7. What if the invitation link doesn't work?


  1. Make sure Signal is installed.
  2. Open the Signal app and make sure setup is complete.
  3. Return to the text message.
  4. Tap the invitation link again.

If it still doesn't work, contact Jim.


8. Will I receive notifications?


Yes. When Signal asks permission to send notifications, tap Allow.


9. What if I accidentally selected "Don't Allow" for notifications?


iPhone

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Apps.
  3. Tap Signal.
  4. Tap Notifications.
  5. Turn Allow Notifications ON.
  6. Turn on:
  • Lock Screen
  • Notification Center
  • Banners


Android

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Apps.
  3. Tap Signal.
  4. Tap Notifications.
  5. Turn Notifications ON.


10. Do I need to share my contacts?


No. When Signal asks to access your contacts, tap Not Now. You can still join the Fairways Fellowship Golf Group.

If you change your mind later:


iPhone

Settings → Apps → Signal → Contacts

Turn Contacts to Full Access.


Android

Settings → Apps → Signal → Permissions → Contacts

Turn Contacts ON.


11. What is the Signal PIN?


The Signal PIN helps protect your account and makes it easier to recover your profile if you get a new phone.

Choose a 4-digit PIN that is easy for you to remember but difficult for someone else to guess.

Example: 4829

Avoid easy PINs such as:

  • 1111
  • 1234
  • 0000

Write your PIN down and keep it in a safe place if needed.


12. Can I use Signal on my computer?


Yes. After Signal is set up on your phone, you can also install Signal on your Windows or Mac computer.


13. Can I still send regular text messages?


Yes. Signal does not replace your phone's Messages app. You can continue using regular text messages whenever you want.


14. Can I send photos in Signal?


Yes. Photos and videos can be shared with the Fairways Fellowship Golf Group.


15. Can I make phone calls in Signal?


Yes. Signal supports voice and video calls between Signal users.


16. Will Signal show advertisements?


No. Signal does not display advertisements.


17. Is Signal secure?


Yes. Signal is widely regarded as one of the most secure messaging apps available.

  • Every message, photo, and phone call is protected with end-to-end encryption.
  • Only the people in the conversation can read the messages.
  • Signal cannot read your messages or listen to your calls.
  • Signal does not keep copies of your messages on its servers. Your message history stays on your own devices. Messages are temporarily stored only long enough to deliver them if your phone is offline.
  • Signal does not sell your personal information.
  • Signal does not display advertisements.
  • Signal is operated by a nonprofit organization whose mission is private and secure communications.


18. What does "Name Not Verified" mean?


Nothing is wrong. It simply means Signal has not verified that person's security identity.

For the Fairways Fellowship Golf Group, this message can safely be ignored.


19. What if I get a new phone?


Install Signal on your new phone and complete the setup.

If you cannot access the Fairways Fellowship Golf Group afterward, contact James for a new invitation.


20. What if I stop receiving notifications?


iPhone

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Apps.
  3. Tap Signal.
  4. Tap Notifications.
  5. Make sure Allow Notifications is ON.


Android

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Apps.
  3. Tap Signal.
  4. Tap Notifications.
  5. Make sure Notifications is ON.


If notifications still do not work on an Android phone:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Apps.
  3. Tap Signal.
  4. Tap Battery.
  5. If available, select Unrestricted or Don't optimize.


21. Who should I contact if I have a problem with Signal?


Contact Jim.


22. Do I have to check Signal every day?


No. If notifications are turned on, Signal will automatically notify you whenever there is a new message from the Fairways Fellowship Golf Group.