How to Check a URL Before You Click — Even on Your Phone

March 30, 2026

Scammers have gotten really good at making fake websites that look exactly like the real thing. The one detail they can’t perfectly copy? The web address — the URL. Here’s how to spot it before you get tricked, no matter what device you’re using.

Why the URL Is Your Best Friend

Imagine you get an email from your bank saying there’s a problem with your account. You click the link, and the page looks exactly like your bank’s website — same logo, same colors, same layout.

But look up at the address bar. Instead of www.yourbank.com, it says something like www.yourbank-secure-login.com. That small difference? That’s how you know it’s a scam.

Scammers can copy everything about a website’s appearance, but they cannot use the exact same web address as the real company. The URL is often the only giveaway.

How to Check a URL on a Computer

If you’re using a laptop or desktop, this is easy:

  1. Hover over the link (move your mouse over it, but don’t click). Look at the bottom-left corner of your browser — you’ll see the web address the link will take you to.
  2. Check the address bar. If you’re already on a website, look at the very top of the browser window. The address bar shows you exactly where you are. Does it match the company you think you’re visiting?

That’s it! Just a quick glance can save you from a lot of trouble.

How to Check a URL on Your Phone or Tablet

On a phone, you can’t hover with a mouse — but there’s a simple trick that works on both iPhones and Android phones.

On an iPhone or iPad

  1. Find the link you want to check (in a text, email, or website).
  2. Press and hold your finger on the link (don’t tap — hold it down for a second).
  3. A small preview window will pop up showing you the web address at the top.
  4. Read the URL carefully before choosing "Open."

On an Android Phone or Tablet

  1. Find the link you want to check.
  2. Long-press the link (hold your finger on it for about one second).
  3. A menu will appear showing the full web address at the top.
  4. Read the URL carefully before deciding to open it.

Tip: If the address looks strange, too long, or doesn’t match the company name — don’t open it.

Sneaky URL Tricks Scammers Love

Scammers are clever with web addresses. Here are the most common tricks to watch for:

  • Misspellings: They swap letters or use numbers that look like letters. For example, amaz0n.com (with a zero instead of the letter "o") or go0gle.com.
  • Extra words: They add official-sounding words to fool you, like paypal-secure-login.com or netflix-account-verify.com. These are not the real companies.
  • Strange endings: Real companies usually end in .com, .org, or your country’s code (like .co.uk). Be suspicious of unusual endings like .xyz, .top, or .buzz.

The Golden Rule

"If you’re not sure, don’t click. Type the address yourself in the browser."

Instead of clicking a link in an email or message, open your browser and type the company’s web address directly. It takes a few extra seconds, but it’s one of the safest habits you can build.

Want to Learn More?

Checking URLs is just one piece of staying safe online. If you found this helpful, you’ll love our Spot a Fake Certified mini-course — it covers everything from spotting AI-generated photos to recognizing phishing emails, all in simple, step-by-step lessons.

You’ve got this. A little knowledge goes a long way.

Explore the Mini-Course →Try the Free Tutorial →

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"Before you click that link, take 2 seconds to check the URL — it’s the easiest way to avoid a scam. Here’s how to do it on any device, even your phone."

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