For a brief period, X (formerly known as Twitter) prevented users from sharing Signal.me links, a feature that allows people to connect instantly through the encrypted messaging service Signal. This restriction was first reported by the blog Disruptionist and remained in place for two days before X quietly lifted the block.
The Unexpected Ban
During the restriction, anyone attempting to share a Signal.me link—whether in a direct message, a post, or even their profile—was met with error messages. Some users received warnings stating the action “might be automated” and was blocked to “protect against spam and malicious activity.” Others saw messages claiming the link had been flagged as “potentially harmful” by X or its partners.
Even clicking on an already posted Signal.me link triggered a security warning, cautioning users that the URL might be “unsafe.” However, users could choose to bypass the alert and access the link anyway. Tech site Engadget confirmed the restriction through independent testing.
Possible Political Motivations?
The sudden block raised eyebrows, particularly as it coincided with X owner Elon Musk’s push against federal workers. His newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is actively reducing government staff, with over 9,500 employees dismissed in a single day on February 14. Some speculate that the Signal ban might have been linked to federal whistleblowers who rely on the platform to report sensitive information.
Though X has since restored access to Signal.me links, the incident highlights growing concerns over platform control, digital censorship, and government influence in online communication.
