Question 1

How do I check if a link is safe before clicking it?

Accepted Answer

Paste the full URL into this scanner. It's checked server-side against Google Safe Browsing's live threat lists for malware, phishing and unwanted software, so you get a verdict without ever visiting the page yourself.

Question 2

What does 'Unsafe' mean for a URL scan result?

Accepted Answer

It means Google Safe Browsing has flagged that exact URL for malware, social engineering (phishing) or unwanted software. Do not open the link, enter credentials, or download anything from it.

Question 3

Does a 'Safe' result guarantee a link is trustworthy?

Accepted Answer

No. A clean result means the URL isn't currently on Google's threat lists, but brand-new phishing pages can slip through before they're indexed. Combine this with checking the domain spelling and using the AI Phishing Detector on any accompanying message.

Question 4

What's the difference between this and the Website Security Scanner?

Accepted Answer

This tool checks a specific URL's reputation against known threat databases. The Website Security Scanner instead audits a domain's HTTPS setup, TLS certificate and security headers. Use both for a fuller picture.

Question 5

Why do shortened links (bit.ly, tinyurl) need extra caution?

Accepted Answer

Link shorteners hide the real destination domain, which scammers exploit to disguise phishing pages. Scanning the shortened link here checks the resolved destination against Safe Browsing before you click.

Google Safe Browsing URL Scanner

How the URL scanner works

1. Paste a URL

2. We query Safe Browsing

3. See the verdict

Frequently asked questions

Website Security Scanner

AI Phishing Detector

UPI & QR Safety Scanner

Authoritative references

Got the whole message, not just a link?