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Elon Musk\u2019s 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\u2019s 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<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n 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\u2019s encrypted messaging platform to securely share information and blow the whistle on potentially harmful activity.\u00a0<\/p>\n Nearly 10,000 federal workers<\/a> have been fired across the government as Musk\u2019s DOGE works to slash federal spending and shut down entire agencies, like USAID. <\/p>\n TechCrunch has attempted to share a link via post and DM. When trying to share via a post, a message pops up that says: \u201cSomething went wrong, but don\u2019t fret \u2013 let\u2019s give it another shot.\u201d <\/p>\n Any message with a link to Signal.me also fails to send, and a pop-up appears that says, \u201cThis request looks like it might be automated. To protect our users from spam and other malicious activity, we can\u2019t complete this action right now. Please try again later.\u201d<\/p>\n TechCrunch reached out to X for comment.\u00a0<\/p>\n Musk is a self-described free-speech advocate, but he frequently<\/a> attacks<\/a> publications<\/a> and individuals<\/a> who have spoken out against his actions. He has also been accused of blocking accounts on <\/a>X of people who have disagreed with him.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n