You always want to be sure that you are safe on the internet.These days, hackers and scam artists can turn seemingly innocent links into malicious ones that can harm your computer.Don't get paranoid!In this article, you will learn how to check the safety and validity of websites and help protect yourself and your computer from potential threats.
Step 1: If you need help, download and use online security software such asNorton orMcAfee.
They will alert you of any unsafe websites and detect any potential threats to your computer.It's worth the investment since you won't have to check to see if you're using safe sites.Even if you can't use any security services, it's usually free to check the URLs on their websites using a link scanning tool.Links with services like Securi can be scanned.
Step 2: The page appears in the search engine.
You should note how far from the top of the results page you are when using a search engine.More trustworthy websites will appear at the top of your results page.You are more likely to click on an unsafe site if you are further down.People can pay to get their website closer to the top of the results list.Don't trust the first result if you're a hacker or scam artist.
Step 3: To see the full URL, hover over the link.
The text of links can be changed so that you think you're going to a safe website.The full URL will be displayed in the bottom corner of your browser if you hover your mouse over the link.You can try this out by hovering over the links in the list of sources.If you use an online security service, this is a good idea for new websites.
Step 4: You should trust your gut feeling.
If you don't think a link is safe, you should not click it.No one is forcing you.It may be an unsafe site if the URL looks suspicious or a scam.
Step 5: Check for the author's information.
Is there a way to find the creator's contact information?Safe sites such as Facebook and WikiHow are used a lot.If you are on a scamming website, you won't be able to reach them in case you get caught.Some sites may have fake contact information in order to trick you into trusting them.Double check that the information is legit if you can safely do it.
Step 6: Take a quick look at the website.
Is there any spelling issues?Misspelled words?Sometimes when they are in a rush, they forget to check.Retail stores and banks wouldn't have simple errors like this on their websites.There is a company logo.What about pictures?The site probably doesn't look professional.You probably don't want to trust anything you find on the site.They probably didn't take time to research or make the site.Does it ask for your personal information?There are deals that are too good to be true.If you enter a contest that requires a credit card number, be aware that you are being tricked into handing over personal information.
Step 7: Do a more thorough check if you are still unsure.
Is there real and fake links?Sometimes this can signal a fraud, as people mimicking another website will often have real links to a privacy policy or a terms of service page.They make it appear more real.