Elon Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), has begun blocking links to Signal.me, a URL shortener associated with the secure messaging app Signal. This service allows users to generate links that enable direct contact via the encrypted platform. The blocks affect direct messages, public posts, and profile pages, as initially reported by the blog Disruptionist.
Federal workers turn to signal amid agency shutdowns
The restriction comes as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) intensifies efforts to cut federal spending, leading to the shutdown of multiple agencies, including NASA and the Department of Education. As a result, government employees have increasingly relied on Signal for encrypted communication, ensuring secure exchanges of information.
Two giant companies, Google and Apple, have restricted their mapping applications due to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Thousands of government employees impacted
Reports indicate that nearly 10,000 federal employees have been dismissed as part of DOGE’s cost-cutting measures. With agencies like USAID also facing closures, affected workers have turned to Signal’s secure platform for communication and potential whistleblowing on government actions.
Blocked messages and failed link sharing on X
Attempts to share Signal.me links on X have been met with automated error messages. When users try to post a link, the platform displays a message stating: “Something went wrong, but don’t fret – let’s give it another shot.”
- Posts containing Signal.me links fail to send
- Direct messages with the links are blocked
- A warning pop-up states that the request appears automated
Users are advised to try again later, though reports suggest the issue persists.
Musk’s stance on free speech questioned
Despite Musk’s self-proclaimed support for free speech, critics argue that his actions contradict this principle. He has been known to target individuals and media outlets that criticize his decisions, with accusations of blocking dissenting voices on X.
A growing debate on X over platform control
The move to restrict Signal links raises concerns over the control social media platforms exert over communication channels. As encrypted messaging gains prominence, questions remain about the implications of X’s decision on digital privacy and freedom of expression.
