In today’s digital world, URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) are often shortened for convenience, especially on social media, messaging platforms, and marketing campaigns. But sometimes, these shortened URLs hide the true destination, raising concerns about security and transparency. This is where the concept of url expander becomes very useful.
What Is an Unshorten URL?
An unshorten URL is the original, full-length web address that a shortened URL redirects to. URL shortening services take a long, complex URL and convert it into a shorter, simplified link. For example, a URL like:
arduinoCopyEdithttps://www.example.com/articles/how-to-learn-seo-effectively
might be shortened to:
arduinoCopyEdithttps://bit.ly/3abcXyz
The shortened link is easier to share but does not reveal the destination page directly.
Unshortening a URL means reversing this process—revealing the full, original URL behind the short link.
Why Are URLs Shortened?
- Ease of Sharing: Short links are easier to share, especially on platforms with character limits (e.g., Twitter).
- Clean Appearance: Short URLs look cleaner and more professional.
- Tracking: Marketers use shortened URLs to track clicks and user engagement.
- Space Saving: Useful in printed materials or text messages where space is limited.
Why Is It Important to Unshorten URLs?
- Security: Shortened URLs can hide malicious websites, phishing pages, or malware downloads. Unshortening helps verify the destination before clicking.
- Transparency: It allows users to see where the link will take them, increasing trust.
- Avoiding Scams: Many scammers use URL shorteners to mask fake or harmful sites.
- Better Decision Making: Knowing the actual URL helps users decide whether the link is worth clicking.
How to Unshorten a URL?
There are several ways to unshorten a URL:
1. Manual Methods
- Preview Feature: Some URL shortening services offer a preview option. For example, adding a “+” after a bit.ly link (like
bit.ly/abc123+) shows the destination. - Hover and Inspect: Hovering over a shortened link in a browser or email client often displays the full URL in the status bar.
2. Online Unshortening Tools
Many websites provide free unshortening services where you can paste a shortened URL, and they will reveal the original one.
Examples:
- CheckShortURL.com
- Unshorten.It
- GetLinkInfo.com
3. Browser Extensions
You can install browser extensions/add-ons that automatically unshorten URLs when you hover or click on them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Unshorten a URL Using Online Tools
- Copy the shortened URL you want to check.
- Open an online unshortening website like CheckShortURL.com.
- Paste the shortened URL into the input box.
- Click the “Expand” or “Unshorten” button.
- The tool will display the full destination URL along with safety checks if available.
Additional Tips for Safety
- Always verify URLs before clicking, especially from unknown sources.
- Use antivirus software with web protection features.
- Avoid clicking shortened links in suspicious emails or messages.
Conclusion
URL shortening has become a standard practice to simplify sharing on the internet, but it also brings risks of hiding malicious destinations. Unshortening URLs helps users maintain transparency and security by revealing the true destination before clicking. Using online tools, browser extensions, or manual preview methods, anyone can easily unshorten a URL to stay safe and informed online.