Abbreviated URLs and scams

Pooh_Bear

I see the MSE Facebook page, along with others, is now using abbreviated URLs for links making it impossible to see the full URL before clicking on the link.

I understand that this is done to provide yet another means of tracking users, telling the FB page originator how a user reached a specific page. Useful information, I'm sure, for determining which online media is generating the most contacts.

However, abbreviated URLs could be hiding almost anything, including links to fake sites or even malware and viruses. Nobody should be clicking on any link without being able to see the full URL of where they are about to go.

JJ_Egan

What happens if you copy  and paste into a browser ?

Do you not see the full link .

Were_Doomed

If they're using !!!!!! type links then they're actually going against their own forum rules.  

5. Respect the security of the forum

• Users are not permitted to post any content containing viruses or other harmful computer code, or use URL shorteners such as Bitly, !!!!!! and !!!!!!.

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/site/forum-faqs/?_ga=2.69497235.2071956864.1603280998-1431916006.1585822245

PS - the forum has censored those last two references to Snip and Tiny - they are shown in the linked rule.

zagfles

Seeing the full URL isn't always safe. Try these two links:

https://www.аррӏе.com

https://www.apple.com