Are Shortened Links Safe? How to Avoid Scams
Shortened links are convenient, but they can also hide malicious websites, scams, or phishing attacks. Cybercriminals often use link shorteners to trick users into clicking on harmful links. So, how do you stay safe while using or clicking on shortened links? Here’s everything you need to know.
1. Why Are Shortened Links Risky?
🔹 Hidden Destinations
Short links mask the actual URL, making it hard to know where they lead. Clicking a malicious link could:
✅ Download malware.
✅ Redirect to phishing sites.
✅ Steal login credentials or personal data.
🔹 Phishing Attacks
Cybercriminals create fake login pages that look real. If you enter your credentials, they can steal your account.
🔹 Fake Promotions & Scams
Scammers use short links to promote fake giveaways, free downloads, or “You’ve won a prize” scams.
2. How to Identify Safe Shortened Links
✅ Expand the Link Before Clicking
Use these tools to preview where a short link goes:
🔹 CheckShortURL (checkshorturl.com)
🔹 URL Expander (urlex.org)
✅ Hover Over the Link
On desktop, hover your mouse over the link (without clicking) to see the full URL in the bottom-left corner of your browser.
✅ Check for HTTPS Security
Always ensure the expanded link starts with https:// (secure connection). Avoid links that start with http://.
✅ Scan the Link for Malware
Use free online tools to check if a link is safe:
🔹 Google Safe Browsing (transparencyreport.google.com)
🔹 VirusTotal (virustotal.com)
✅ Look for Suspicious Words in URLs
Avoid links with:
❌ Random numbers & letters (e.g., bit.ly/X1Yz9aQ)
❌ Misspelled brand names (e.g., facebok.com instead of facebook.com)
❌ Unusual domains (.xyz, .top, .ru, .tk)
3. How to Avoid Short Link Scams
✅ Only Click Links from Trusted Sources
Never click short links from:
🔴 Unknown emails or messages.
🔴 Suspicious social media posts or DMs.
🔴 Random ads claiming free prizes.
✅ Use a Secure Browser & Extensions
🔹 Enable Safe Browsing in Chrome or Firefox.
🔹 Install security extensions like McAfee WebAdvisor or Bitdefender TrafficLight.
✅ Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Even if scammers steal your credentials, 2FA adds an extra security layer.
4. Are All Short Links Dangerous?
Not all shortened links are bad. Trusted companies like Google, Bitly, and TinyURL have safety measures.
🟢 Safe & Trusted Shorteners:
✅ Bitly (bit.ly) – Popular & secure.
✅ TinyURL (tinyurl.com) – Provides preview links.
✅ Rebrandly (rebrand.ly) – Used by businesses.
✅ T2M (t2m.io) – Offers detailed analytics.
🔴 Unsafe or Risky Shorteners:
❌ ad-based link shorteners (e.g., adf.ly, shorte.st) – These often contain intrusive ads and malware.
❌ Unknown free shorteners – Some may log and sell your data.
5. Conclusion
Shortened links can be safe if used correctly. Always expand, verify, and scan before clicking. Stick to trusted shorteners and avoid clicking random links from unknown sources.
Stay safe and browse smart! 🔒