X users have reported that they are unable to post links to Signal.me, which is used to quickly and securely send instant messages to Signal users. When X users attempt to post Signal links, they see failure notifications, with some saying that the blocked message contains spam, harmful content, or malicious activity.
The issue was first reported by Matt Binder, who notes that only Signal.me links appear to be affected. Links to the Signal.org domain are unaffected.
See also: Signal will let you sync old messages to new devices
In addition to blocking Signal.me links in public posts and direct messages, users are also unable to click on existing links and are not allowed to add them to profile bio . If someone tries to put a link in their profile, they will see an error message saying that the update failed because the new description is “considered malware.”
This wouldn't be the first time X has blocked access to third-party services promoted on the platform. Links to Facebook, Instagram, Mastodon , and other rival social media platforms were briefly blocked in 2022. Links to Substack were also restricted in 2023, after the launch of X's "Notes" feature.
See also: Signal introduces “call links” for private group chats
However, the case of Signal is different, as it does not require a direct competitor to X. For now, Signal user handles can still be published to X, and can be copied and pasted into the messaging app (as a workaround).
Following this issue, many users have expressed concerns about the power and control that social media over communication. This incident has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability when it comes to content control.
Some have argued that platforms like X should not have the authority to determine what is considered “harmful” or “spam”.
See also: Signal: Protecting your phone number using usernames
By restricting access to certain messaging, X can prevent important conversations. Signal is often used by journalists to get confidential information from sources.
Source: www.theverge.com
