What you'll get

Message Backup (local)Chat HistoryMediaNote to Self

Before you start

Open Signal > Settings > Chats
Look for "Create Backup" (Android/Desktop)

How to download

Save the .backup file to your local storage or cloud drive
On Signal Desktop, use "Create Backup" in Settings to export

Pro tip

Signal backups are encrypted and local — Signal cannot export your messages for you. On Android you can enable encrypted backups to local storage. On iOS, backups go through iCloud (encrypted). Signal Desktop can also export via the "Create Backup" option in Settings.

After the download

Store the backup passphrase separately from the backup file
Without the passphrase the backup is unreadable
Not sure where to store your export? See our backup guide.