How to Check a Suspicious Link Without Clicking It
As internet usage has increased exponentially, so has the risk of falling victim to cybercriminals and malicious activities. One common method used by hackers is to use suspicious links to gain unauthorized access to personal information or to install malicious software on your devices. We will give you important tips on how to verify the validity of a link without jeopardizing your online security.
Hover Over the Link
Hovering over a link without clicking it allows you to inspect its destination without any risk. By simply placing your cursor over the link and observing the tooltip that appears, you can reveal the actual web address. This step is particularly useful in emails, social media posts, or messages containing hyperlinked text. If the tooltip shows a different or suspicious URL, it’s a clear indicator of potential danger.
Analyze the URL
The first step in evaluating a suspicious link is to carefully examine the URL. Although cybercriminals can create URLs that appear to be identical, there are subtle differences that can be used to identify fraudulent ones. Check the domain name for misspellings, additional characters, or unusual domain extensions. Fraudulent URLs frequently imitate well-known websites, so look for minor differences that could indicate a trap.
For example, if you receive an email claiming to be from a reputable online retailer such as Amazon, look for domain name variations. Authentic links typically include the store’s official domain, such as www.amazon.com. Be wary if the link includes unusual additions, such as www.amazon-deals-offer.com.
Employ Link Expander Services
Another useful method to check a suspicious link is by using link expander services, such as CheckShortURL or Unshorten.it. These services reveal the original destination of shortened URLs, which are commonly used to camouflage malicious links. By simply pasting the shortened URL into the link expander tool, you can uncover the true web address hiding behind it, and assess its credibility before deciding to proceed.
Check the Source
Another effective method to evaluate a suspicious link is investigating the source or the sender of the link. If you receive an email or message from an unfamiliar person or organization, exercise caution. Verify the legitimacy of the sender by cross-checking their name, email address, or contact information online. Reputable sources will have a professional online presence, while scammers often use generic or untraceable contact details.
Utilizing Online Link Scanners
To enhance your security measures, consider using online link scanners that allow you to check the safety of a link without risking your own device’s security. Several reputable websites provide link-scanning services that inspect the URL for potential threats, phishing attempts, or malware. These scanners utilize databases of known malicious links and analyze the URL to assess its safety. Some popular link scanners include VirusTotal, Google Safe Browsing, and Norton Safe Web.
Search for the Website or Content
If you are unsure about the legitimacy of a link, you can search for the website or the content it claims to offer without actually visiting the link itself. By copying and pasting the headline or URL into a search engine, you can often find reputable sources discussing the topic or provide feedback on the link’s legitimacy. This method allows you to gather information while remaining shielded from potential risks.
Copying and Pasting
If you remain unsure about a link’s authenticity, you can use a copy-paste method to check its content without actually clicking on it. Highlight the suspicious link, right-click, and choose the “Copy” option. Then, open a new tab or window and paste the link into the address bar (Ctrl+V). This way, you can view the website’s content directly without exposing yourself to potential risks associated with clicking the link.
Trust your Instincts
It is crucial to trust your instincts when encountering suspicious links. If something seems too good to be true, or if the link appears dubious in any way, refrain from clicking on it altogether. Cybercriminals often employ enticing offers, urgent messages, or fear tactics to manipulate users into clicking unsafe links. By exercising caution and doubting unfamiliar or suspicious URLs, you can protect your online security effectively.
Conclusion
Staying vigilant and cautious while browsing the internet is critical to protecting your online security. By following the steps outlined above for how to check a suspicious link without clicking it, you can effectively reduce the risks associated with cyber threats. Prevention is always preferable to cure, and by following good cybersecurity practices, you can safeguard your valuable personal information while enjoying a worry-free online experience. If you find the information is useful, please review it and share with us your feedback below.