In today’s digital world, URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) often get shortened for convenience, especially on social media platforms, messaging apps, and marketing campaigns. However, these shortened URLs can sometimes hide the true destination link, which can pose risks or cause confusion. This is where Unshorten URL tools and techniques become url expander.
What is a Shortened URL?
A shortened URL is a condensed version of a long web address. Services like Bitly, TinyURL, and others generate these short links, making it easier to share links that are long, complicated, or contain tracking parameters. For example, a long link:
bashCopyEdithttps://www.example.com/articles/2024/07/important-news-about-technology-updates
might be shortened to:
arduinoCopyEdithttps://bit.ly/3XyZAbC
Why Do People Use URL Shorteners?
- Convenience: Short links are easier to share, especially on platforms with character limits, like Twitter.
- Tracking: Marketers use URL shorteners to track click rates and gather analytics.
- Aesthetics: Short URLs look cleaner and more user-friendly.
- Avoid broken links: Sometimes long URLs get truncated in emails or messages, so short links prevent that.
What is an Unshorten URL?
Unshorten URL means expanding or revealing the original long URL behind a shortened link. It helps users know where a shortened URL will take them before actually clicking on it. This is important for safety, transparency, and avoiding malicious websites.
Why Should You Unshorten URLs?
- Security: Shortened links can mask dangerous or phishing websites.
- Trust: Knowing the real destination builds confidence in clicking the link.
- Verification: To confirm the content or source of the link.
- SEO and Marketing: To analyze link destination and performance properly.
How to Unshorten a URL? Step-by-Step
Step 1: Use Online Unshortening Services
Several free websites allow you to paste the shortened URL, and they will show you the original link. Examples:
- CheckShortURL (checkshorturl.com)
- Unshorten.It (unshorten.it)
- WhereGoes (wheregoes.com)
Step 2: Browser Extensions
Install browser add-ons that automatically preview the destination URL when you hover over or click a shortened link.
Step 3: Manual Techniques
Sometimes, you can reveal the long URL by:
- Adding a “+” or “preview” at the end of the shortened URL (depends on service). For example:
- Bitly: add “+” at the end, e.g.,
https://bit.ly/3XyZAbC+ - TinyURL: use
preview.tinyurl.cominstead oftinyurl.com
- Bitly: add “+” at the end, e.g.,
Step 4: Use Developer Tools
Advanced users can inspect HTTP redirects in browser developer tools or use command-line tools like curl to follow the redirect chain.
Best Practices for Users and Marketers
- Users: Always unshorten suspicious or unknown links before clicking to avoid malware or phishing attacks.
- Marketers: Use trustworthy shortening services and disclose the link destination if possible.
- Webmasters: Monitor your links regularly to ensure they direct correctly and safely.
Conclusion
URL shortening is a powerful tool for sharing and marketing, but it can also hide the real destination of a link. Unshorten URL tools and methods help users and professionals verify, secure, and trust these links by revealing their true targets before interaction. Being cautious with shortened URLs enhances your online safety and browsing experience.