Think Before You Click: How to Avoid Malicious Links

Suspicious links can hide dangers like viruses or scams. To stay safe:

1. Hover Over Links – On a computer, place your mouse over the link without clicking; on mobile, press and hold to see the real URL.
2. Use a Link Scanner – Tools like urlscan.io analyze links without visiting them.
3. Check for Typos – Scammers use fake domains like “t-mogbile.com” instead of “t-mobile.com.”

Always verify links before clicking to protect yourself online.

You Should Know: Essential Cybersecurity Commands & Steps

1. Verify URLs Before Clicking

• Linux/Mac (Terminal):

  curl -I "URL"  Check HTTP headers without downloading content
  whois example.com  Check domain registration details
  

• Windows (PowerShell):

  Invoke-WebRequest -Uri "URL" -Method Head  Inspect headers
  nslookup example.com  Verify DNS records
  

2. Scan Suspicious Links

• Use VirusTotal API (Command Line):

  curl -X POST --url 'https://www.virustotal.com/vtapi/v2/url/scan' --data 'apikey=YOUR_API_KEY' --data 'url=URL_TO_SCAN'
  

3. Detect Phishing Domains

• Python Script to Check URL Legitimacy:

  import requests
  def check_url(url):
  try:
  response = requests.get(url, timeout=5)
  if response.status_code == 200:
  print("URL is accessible, but verify domain manually.")
  except:
  print("Warning: Suspicious or unreachable URL!")
  check_url("https://example.com")
  

4. Browser Security Extensions

• Install uBlock Origin (blocks malicious sites).
• Use NoScript (disables risky scripts).

5. Analyze Network Traffic

• Wireshark Command (Linux):

  sudo wireshark  Inspect HTTP/HTTPS traffic
  

• Windows (Command Prompt):

  netstat -ano  Check active connections
  

What Undercode Say

Always verify URLs before interacting with them. Use command-line tools like curl, whois, and `nslookup` to inspect domains. Automate checks with Python scripts and leverage APIs like VirusTotal. Browser extensions add an extra layer of defense. Network analysis tools (Wireshark, netstat) help detect malicious traffic. Stay vigilant—cybercriminals constantly evolve tactics.

Expected Output:

A secure browsing habit, automated URL checks, and awareness of phishing techniques.

Reference:

• URL Scanner – urlscan.io
• VirusTotal API Docs

References:

Reported By: Dylan Williams – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅

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