Elon Musk’s platform, X (formerly known as Twitter), has recently implemented restrictions on links to Signal.me, a URL shortener associated with the encrypted messaging service Signal. This development, which affects direct messages, public posts, and user profile pages, was initially highlighted by the blog Disruptionist.
Impact on Federal Workers
This change coincides with the efforts of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is targeting various federal agencies, including NASA and the Department of Education. In light of these actions, many federal employees are turning to Signal’s secure messaging platform to share sensitive information and report potentially harmful activities.
As a result of DOGE’s initiatives, nearly 10,000 federal workers have been dismissed from their positions across the government, with some agencies, such as USAID, facing complete shutdowns.
<span class="wp-block-imagecredits”>Image Credits:Rebecca Bellan
Attempts by TechCrunch to share a link via posts and direct messages on X have been met with obstacles. When attempting to post a link, users receive a notification stating, “Something went wrong, but don’t fret – let’s give it another shot.” Furthermore, any message containing a link to Signal.me fails to send, triggering a pop-up that reads, “This request looks like it might be automated. To protect our users from spam and other malicious activity, we can’t complete this action right now. Please try again later.”
In light of these developments, TechCrunch reached out to X for further clarification on the matter.
Musk, who identifies as a proponent of free speech, has faced criticism for his treatment of publications and individuals who voice dissent regarding his decisions. There have been allegations of him blocking accounts on X belonging to those who oppose his views.
