How to check if a shortened URL is safe to click

Shortened URLs, like those from bit.ly or goo.gl, are handy for saving space, but they can be tricky. You click on them, but where do they really take you?

Cybercriminals shall potentially use shortened URLs to hide malicious websites. These websites might steal your personal information, infect your device with malware, or try to trick you into giving up your passwords (phishing attacks).

Before you click on a shortened URL, take a few seconds to check its safety! Here’s how:

1. Use the Shortener’s Preview Feature (if available):

Many shortening services offer a way to see the full URL before clicking. Here’s how for some popular ones:

TinyURL: Add “preview.” before “tinyurl.com” in the address bar.
- Example: Instead of https://tinyurl.com/2s3cx67c, try https://preview.tinyurl.com/2s3cx67c
Bitly: Add a “+” symbol to the end of the shortened URL.
- Example: Instead of bit.ly/2s3cx67c, try http://bit.ly/2s3cx67c+

2. Use a URL Checker Website:

If the shortener doesn’t have a preview feature, don’t worry! There are websites designed to reveal the full URL for you. Here are a few free options:

getlinkinfo.com
unshorten.it
urlxray.com

Simply copy and paste the shortened URL into the website’s search bar and click “Expand” or “Unshorten.”

3. Trust Your Gut:

Does the shortened URL look suspicious? Is it promising something too good to be true, or is it from a source you don’t recognize? When in doubt, don’t click! Also, if you’re shortening a URL yourself, consider using a clear and descriptive title instead of random characters. This helps others know where the link leads before clicking. It is a good practice to not to use a shortened URL if you ask people to log in. If you are directing people to a page that requires login, let them see the full URL and tell them login will be required.

Criminals use shortened URLs to direct people to phishing websites that might ask you to enter personal/sensitive information. Always validate before you enter any details. Sometimes, they might initiate download of malicious software, such as ransomware, to your device. It is better to avoid clicking such URLs.

Take a little more extra seconds to check shortened URLs, so that you can avoid dangerous websites and protect your online information.

Thanks for Reading. Stay Tuned!