Suspicious shortened link
A shortened or redirect link (bit.ly-style) that hides where it really leads.
Why it matters
Short links conceal the true destination, so you can't tell a fake login or payment page from a real one.
Example only - do not act on it
Example only: Track your parcel: [fake-link removed]
Why scammers use this
Hiding the domain makes phishing pages look harmless and bypasses your instinct to check the address.
What to do
- Don't tap the link - open the official app or type the address yourself.
- Preview the real destination (long-press) before trusting any link.
- If you opened it, don't enter anything and close the page.
What not to do
- Don't trust a link because the page looks official.
- Don't enter logins or card details on a page reached from a message.
- Don't rely on the visible link text - it can hide the real destination.
How to verify safely
Don't trust the link - reach the company yourself via its official app or a web address you type. If the claim is real, you'll see it there.
Scams where this appears
Related message checks
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- Is this Instagram copyright violation DM a scam?
- Is this Meta Business Support warning a scam?
- Is this customs clearance fee text a scam?
- Is this fake delivery customs fee SMS a scam?
- Is this USPS redelivery fee text a scam?
- Is this UPS 'package cannot be delivered' text a scam?
- Is this FedEx address confirmation SMS a scam?
Related scam-type hubs
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Check a messageFrequently asked questions
Are all short links bad?
No, but a short link in an unexpected message is a reason to stop and reach the company directly instead.