Short URLs are everywhere.
They simplify sharing, make links look cleaner, and are easy to remember.
But with these benefits come some risks. How do you know if a short URL is safe to click? How can you check short url?
This guide will answer these questions and more, showing you how to check shortened link.
Check Short URL – Introduction
Before diving into the how-tos, let’s clearly understand what a short link checker is.
A short URL checker is a tool for ensuring the safety and reliability of shortened URLs.
These tools help you avoid malicious sites and potential phishing scams by revealing the full destination URL and providing safety ratings.
Whether you’re sharing or clicking on short links, a shortened URL checker can protect you and your audience from online threats.
Make link-checking a regular practice to maintain trust and security in your interactions.
How to Check Short Link
Many short url link checker tools can help you check where a short URL will take you without clicking on it. Here are a few:
1. VirusTotal
VirusTotal is a powerful tool that scans short URLs for any signs of malware or phishing.
It uses multiple antivirus engines to provide a safety report.
ShortifyMe has incorporated the VirusTotal API on the backend, ensuring that every short URL created through our interface is automatically cleaned and verified for safety.
This integration adds an extra layer of protection, giving you peace of mind when sharing or clicking on short URLs.
2. CheckShortURL
CheckShortURL is a simple tool where you can paste the short URL and see the full URL it redirects to.
This shorten link checker supports many popular URL-shortening services such as Shortifyme.
3. Unshorten.It
Unshorten.It not only reveals the destination URL but also provides additional information about the site, including a screenshot and safety ratings.
4. Bitly`s Link Preview
Bitly, one of the most popular URL shortening services, allows you to preview the destination URL by adding a + at the end of the shortened link.
This feature shows a preview page that helps verify the link’s authenticity before clicking.
5. Long URL
LongURL is a browser extension that automatically expands short URLs.
It’s handy for frequent users of shortened links, providing instant access to the full URL without needing to visit a separate site.
6. Unshorten.link
Unshorten.link offers a browser extension that not only expands short URLs but also includes detailed information about the destination, such as safety ratings and a summary of the site content.
7. URL Unshortener
URL Unshortener provides a quick way to expand short URLs and view the original link.
It also offers insights into the URL’s history, helping you understand its past usage and credibility.
8. Expand URL
ExpandURL is a shortened link checker tool that reveals the full destination.
It’s useful for checking links in emails or messages before clicking, providing an added layer of security.
9. Link Expander
Link Expander offers a simple interface for expanding short URLs.
It’s effective for verifying links quickly and ensuring they lead to safe and expected destinations.
10. CheckMyLink
CheckMyLink not only expands short URLs but also checks for broken links.
This dual functionality makes it a valuable tool for both link safety and web maintenance.
How to Check a Shortened URL – Manual Checking Methods
1. Hover Over Links
Hovering over a shortened URL can sometimes reveal the full destination URL in the status bar of your browser.
This helps you get an idea of where the link will take you without actually clicking on it.
2. Check the Domain
If the shortened URL seems suspicious, check the domain of the shortened link.
For example, if a URL shortener link directs to an unfamiliar or unusual domain, it might be a red flag.
Compare it to trusted domains or use a domain reputation service to check its safety.
3. Analyze URL Structure
Look at the structure of the shortened URL.
Some services create URLs with identifiable patterns or parameters that can give clues about their content.
For instance, URLs with random or nonsensical characters may warrant more scrutiny.
4. Search for Reviews And Reports
Perform a quick web search for the short URL or its domain.
Sometimes, others might have reported issues or provided reviews about the URL or its destination.
This can help you identify any potential risks associated with the link.
5. Use Link Scanners
There are online services that scan and analyze the URL for safety. Websites like Snyk or URLVoid provide security checks and can alert you if the link is associated with known threats.
The Importance of Check Short URL
Protecting Yourself from Phishing
Phishing attacks often use short URLs to disguise malicious links.
By checking these URLs, you can avoid falling victim to these scams.
Avoiding Malware
Short URLs can lead to sites that automatically download malware to your device.
Checking the URL first can help you avoid these dangerous sites.
Ensuring Trustworthiness
If you’re sharing links with others, ensuring the URLs are safe will build trust with your audience.
No one wants to click on a link that takes them to a harmful site.
Check Shortened Link – Conclusion
Short URLs are a handy tool for modern web navigation, but they come with potential risks.
By using the tools and methods outlined in this short link checker guide, you can use short url checkers to ensure they are safe and trustworthy.
Protect yourself and your audience by making link-checking a regular practice.
Shortened URL Checker – FAQs
Can I trust all short URLs from reputable sources?
While short URLs from reputable sources are safe, it’s still good practice to check them, if you receive them from unknown contacts.
Are there browser extensions to check short links?
Yes, extensions like LongURL and Unshorten.link can reveal the destination of short URLs.
What should I do if a short URL leads to a malicious site?
If you encounter a malicious site, report it to the shortening service and avoid clicking on any further links from that source.
How to check if a tiny URL is safe on your browser?
To check if a TinyURL is safe on your browser, hover over the link to view the full URL in the status bar.
You can also use browser extensions or tools.
How do I track a short URL for free?
To track a short URL, you can use URL shortening services that offer analytics, such as ShortifyMe.
How to get an original link from a short link for free?
To get the original link from a short link, use a URL expander tool.
How to verify a short URL for businesses?
To verify a short URL, use tools like VirusTotal to scan the link for safety.
Relevant Guides and Tools
