Previewing Links on Phones and Computers
How to see where a link goes before you open it on iPhone, Android, Windows and Mac, including hover, long-press and link preview settings in email and messaging apps.
Before you open a link, you can almost always see where it goes. The method depends on your device. Make these habits automatic, and you will catch most phishing links before they catch you.
On a computer
- Hover the mouse over the link without clicking. The real address appears at the bottom corner of the browser or email window.
- Right-click and choose "Copy link address" to paste it somewhere safe, such as a checker.
On iPhone and iPad
- Press and hold the link. A menu shows the address; some apps show a page preview.
- If a preview starts loading, close it without tapping inside it.
On Android
- Press and hold the link. The address appears at the top of the menu, with options to copy it.
In messaging apps
- Link preview cards show a title and image chosen by the website, which can be misleading.
- Press and hold the link itself to see the address.
Link text is not the destination. "www.yourbank.com" written in a message can point anywhere. Always check the real address.
What to do with the address
- Find the registered domain. See how to read a URL.
- If it is not the organization's real domain, do not open it.
- If unsure, go to the organization's app or type its site yourself.
Copied a link you are unsure about? Paste it into CyberWatch AI Scan for a free check.
For more, read our phishing guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is long-pressing a link safe?
Generally yes. It shows the address and options without opening the page. On some phones a preview of the page may start loading; close it if so and do not type anything.
Why does the link text differ from the preview?
Link text can say anything. The preview shows the real destination, which is what matters.
Do messaging apps show previews?
Many generate a preview card, but the card can be misleading. Check the actual address.
Sources
- How To Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams, US Federal Trade Commission
- How To Protect Your Phone From Hackers, US Federal Trade Commission
- Phishing: spot and report scam emails, texts, websites and calls, UK National Cyber Security Centre
