Updated: 1/14/24
If you’re unsure about a link in general, follow the advice to see if it’s safe to click on or not:
The fact that a site uses https:// and displays the padlock icon doesn’t by itself mean that it’s genuine. It’s still possible – though less likely – for it to be a spoof.
If the security certificate isn’t displayed, you receive a message saying the URL address of the site does not match the certificate, or that the certificate is not to be trusted, then it is most likely a spoof with someone waiting to get hold of your credentials.
So even for an https site, you should still double-check the website address in your browser’s URL address field. If the address looks odd, then don’t go any further until you’ve verified it with the company or organization.
For shortened links, you can use the “preview” function. If you enter the shortened bit.ly URL in your browser with a “+” at the end, it will report back information about the site that the shortened link leads to.
Watch out for substitutional digits for letters in URLs
Hover over links to find out where they actually lead.
Https is safer than http. Check the certificate, however!
The next time there’s an “urgent” request from your bank or parcel service in between all of your daily email, these are the things you should look out for:
Bad language often indicates a scam
Don’t be compelled by artificial urgency
Don’t give away sensitive information in emails or places they lead to
Be wary if you’re addressed impersonally or oddly
Check the senders FULL Address
If you got hacked by a phisher, change your passwords and login immediately