X is blocking links to Signal, a secure messaging platform used by federal workers

Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) is blocking links to Signal.me, a URL shortener used by the private messaging app Signal that allows users to send out a link that’s used to contact them directly through the service. The blocks, which impact direct messages, public posts, and profile pages, were first spotted by the blog Disruptionist. 

The change comes as DOGE (the Department of Government Efficiency) takes aim at federal agencies, including NASA and the Department of Education, leaving workers turning to Signal’s encrypted messaging platform to securely share information and blow the whistle on potentially harmful activity. 

Nearly 10,000 federal workers have been fired across the government as Musk’s DOGE works to slash federal spending and shut down entire agencies, like USAID.

TechCrunch has attempted to share a link via post and DM. When trying to share via a post, a message pops up that says: “Something went wrong, but don’t fret – let’s give it another shot.”

Any message with a link to Signal.me also fails to send, and a pop-up appears that says, “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.”

TechCrunch reached out to X for comment. 

Musk is a self-described free-speech advocate, but he frequently attacks publications and individuals who have spoken out against his actions. He has also been accused of blocking accounts on X of people who have disagreed with him.