Signal CEO Moxie Marlinspike steps down, names WhatsApp co-founder Brian Acton as interim CEO

• Moxie Marlinspike is stepping down as CEO of secure messaging app Signal.
• WhatsApp co-founder Brian Acton will serve as the interim CEO.

Signal messaging app's founder and CEO, Moxie Marlinspike, is stepping down, he said in a blog post on Monday.

"It's a new year, and I've decided it's a good time to replace myself as the CEO of Signal," said Marlinspike, whose real name is Matthew Rosenfeld.

Since its launch in 2015, Signal has become massively popular for its encrypted messaging service.

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"People increasingly find value and peace of mind in Signal (technology built for them instead of for their data), and are increasingly willing to sustain it," wrote Marlinspike.

"Every day, I'm struck by how boundless Signal's potential looks, and I want to bring in someone with fresh energy and commitment to make the most of that," he added.

Marlinspike said he will remain on Signal's board and look for a new CEO, but WhatsApp co-founder Brian Acton will serve as the interim CEO.

Acton founded WhatsApp in 2009. Facebook acquired the messaging service in 2014. Acton left WhatsApp in 2017.