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1 year, 11 months ago

Is it risky to click on links from url shortening services like bit.ly?

It seems like a lot of people are using url shortening services to post links, especially with services like Twitter. When you see these links, it doesn't tell you want the real link actually is. Is it risky to click on these links? Is there a chance it could lead to a bad website or a virus?
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opher | 1 year, 11 months ago
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Indeed it can be risky to click on such links since you cannot see where you will be taken. This has two caveats. First, these services allow the person generating the short URL to set it up such that when you move your cursor over the short URL the browser shows the user the full target URL. If this was done, you can see where you'll be sent, which provides some measure of confidence. Second, if you have up-to-date Internet security software such as Norton 360 you will be protected against most malware. However, one can never be too careful, because no software protects against all possible malware. This is why you should be cautious, especially when following links posted by strangers.

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bunnyphuphu | 1 year, 11 months ago Report

I don't like to click on unknown links... it feels like getting into a strangers car.

http://www.scaryforkids.com/pics/car-ride.jpg

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joepa | 4 months ago
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You are an arsehole. Wondering if you ever considered that, apropos of nothing, of course.

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hplahpla | 1 year, 11 months ago
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Yes it's risky. Internet is no longer "read-only" like it was 20 years ago. Just by clicking a link, you could be launching a program. By program, I mean things such as JavaScripts.

Clicking on a link when the destination is shown is already risky. Therefore clicking on a shortened link is even more riskier. But doesn't mean every link will cause harm. Like walking in a dark alley in the middle of the night by yourself. Risky but no guarantee harm. The risk level can be attributed to many factors like why are you there, who sent you there, what neighborhood is it, history of that alley, etc.

Generally, very low risk to click on a shortened link if it's from someone you trust and your expecting to receive it.

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