X users are currently facing issues when trying to share Signal.me links on the platform. When attempting to add these links to posts, direct messages (DMs), or profile bios, users are encountering various error messages, with some being flagged as spam or malicious content.
What’s Happening with Signal.me Links?
The issue seems to be specifically with Signal.me links, which are used to quickly and securely send direct messages to Signal users. While links to other domains, including Signal.org and services like Telegram, are not affected, Signal.me links are being blocked outright.
Users are being discouraged from clicking on existing Signal.me links, and attempts to add them to profiles result in an error message saying the update was unsuccessful due to being “considered malware.”
Why Is This Happening?
Signal, known for its end-to-end encryption, is frequently used by journalists and whistleblowers to communicate securely. This disruption comes at a time when the app is particularly relevant for reporting sensitive information.
While X has previously blocked links to rival platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Mastodon, this situation is unique. Signal is not a direct competitor to X, raising questions about why the platform is blocking these specific links.
Possible Motives and Previous Actions
X has a history of blocking or restricting links to competitors. In 2022, it briefly blocked links to Facebook and Instagram, citing the need to tackle the “relentless advertising of competitors for free.”
In 2023, it also restricted Substack links after Substack launched a feature similar to Twitter. However, with Signal not being a direct rival, the motivations behind this specific block remain unclear.
Workaround for Users
Despite these issues, users can still publish Signal user handles on X, which can then be copied and pasted into the Signal app.
This workaround allows users to continue sharing their Signal contact information without using the Signal.me link.
