Signal Links are Being Restricted by X
Dang, freedom of speech taking a hit again, right? Apparently, Elon Musk's X is keeping folks from sharing Signal links. Strange error messages pop up when you try, too. Like, "Something went wrong, but don't sweat it, let's try again." Sounds like a script from a cheesy '80s movie.
Journalist Matt Binder discovered this while posting Signal's domain in various spots: posts, DMs, even profile descriptions. The restriction even applies when you're sent a DM with the Signal domain. An error message then reminds you that the platform is on high spam and safety alert.
Turns out, X has their eyes on Signal.me, but they're still cool with Signal.org. Weird, huh?
Now, this isn't the first time X has stepped on another app's toes. Remember when they briefly blocked links to Instagram, Facebook, and other rivals a couple of years back? Yes, X is known for shutting down external links to keep its own content under control.
It's not like Signal is the ultimate nemesis, though. While it does offer encrypted messaging, it's not squarely in X's crosshairs.
As for why X decided to snub Signal, who knows? It could be a combo of security concerns, political shenanigans, privacy worries, and, of course, a bit of good old fashioned control freakery.
- Elon Musk's company, X, seems to have specific issues with Signal's domain, as journalist Matt Binder encountered error messages when trying to share it.
- The restriction on sharing Signal's domain extends to direct messages as well, with an error message citing high spam and safety alerts.
- Interestingly, X has no issues with Signal.org but seems to have targeted Signal.me, indicating a more nuanced approach towards the platform.
- This is not the first time X has interfered with external links, as they previously blocked links to Instagram, Facebook, and other competitors a few years ago.