[nalekberov]

> But Telegram has a huge spam problem. Which is likely the real reason Signal requires a phone number.

I was able to register with fake number I got for free on the internet. That clearly doesn't solve SPAM problem. If I know that, Signal certainly knows that.

[CrossVR]

There's not an unlimited amount of fake numbers available, that's the difference. The point is to limit your ability to register thousands of accounts.

Spam filtering is a game of numbers, every limit you impose to the ability of spammers to amplify their message reduces the likelihood a particular individual receives a spam message.

[Sophira]

Did you have to supply your personal details to anybody in order to get that free number?

[nalekberov]

Not at all, but the downside is it works until someone takes over.