Sometimes you don’t have a full text — just a short link, a “click here to verify” URL, or something that looks like your bank with one wrong letter. Free LinkCheck is the right tool when you have a URL. If you still have the whole message, also run ScamCheck.
Before you tap anything
- Don’t open the link cold — especially on public Wi‑Fi when you’re rushed.
- Copy the link instead: on many phones, press and hold the blue link → Copy. On a computer, right-click → Copy link address.
- Paste into LinkCheck at /tools/link-check/.
- Read the result — look for lookalike domains, known bad lists when available, and common phishing shapes. Absence of a hit is not a green light to enter passwords.
- Use the real app — bank, package carrier, Apple/Google settings — opened by you, not by the SMS.
What a bad link often looks like
- Your bank’s name plus extra words:
chase-secure-login.co - Random letter soup after a shortener
- HTTP (not secure) on a page asking for a password
- “Login” pages with spelling errors or the wrong logo colors
- Tiny fees ($1–$5) to “unlock” a package or toll
Link vs full text — which tool?
- Only a URL → LinkCheck
- Full SMS / email / DM → ScamCheck
- QR code photo → QRCheck then LinkCheck
- Already clicked and typed something → damage-control guide
For parents and less tech-savvy users
You do not need to “understand domains.” The habit is simple: copy → paste into the free checker → if it’s weird, stop and call a trusted family member or the company using a number from your card/statement. No one should make you feel dumb for double-checking.
FAQ
- Is LinkCheck free? Yes — no signup.
- Does a “clean” result mean safe? No. New phishing sites appear hourly. Still prefer official apps.
- Should I reply STOP? Replying can confirm your number is live. Delete and ignore when it’s junk.