Skip to main content
AI for Seniors

Is this link safe? Free Link Checker

Got a link in a text, email or message? Paste it below. We will tell you, in plain words, what looks off, so you can see the tricks for yourself.

We never open or visit the link. We only look at how it is written and do a few safe lookups.

Wise owl mascot

Paste a link and I will check it!

Try an example (these are made-up example links):

How to spot a fake link yourself

  1. Find the real website name: the words just before the first single slash "/". In paypal.com.secure-login.xyz/home it is secure-login.xyz, not PayPal.
  2. Check the spelling closely: paypa1 (number one) or rnicrosoft (r + n) are fakes.
  3. Be wary of pressure words like "verify," "suspended" or "refund."
  4. When in doubt, type the company's address yourself or use its official app.

Learn more in our guides: Staying safe from AI scams and AI Scam Checker for messages.

Run a library, senior center or blog?

Put this free link checker on your own website with one line of code.

Get the free embed code

Get one simple safety tip a day

Free tips to spot scams and use AI safely. Unsubscribe anytime.

Free. We never sell your email. Unsubscribe anytime with one click.

Questions people ask

How do I know if a link is safe?

Look at the real website name, the part just before the first single slash, such as paypal.com. Scammers add words, swap letters, or put a real company name at the front of a fake address. Our checker points these out for you.

Does this link checker open the link?

No. We never visit the link. We only look at how it is written, check how old the website name is, and may check Google’s list of known dangerous sites.

Can a link that "looks OK" still be a scam?

Yes. No checker catches every scam. If a message pressures you to act fast, pay, or log in, go to the company’s website yourself or call a number you trust.

What should I do if I already clicked a scam link?

Close the page. Do not type any passwords or card numbers. If you did, change your password and call your bank using the number on your card. In the U.S., you can report scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Is this link checker free?

Yes. It is completely free, with no sign-up needed.