In the digital age, URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) serve as the addresses for web pages. However, long URLs can be cumbersome, confusing, and sometimes unsafe to click on. This is where URL shortening services come into play. But what happens when you want to reveal the original link behind a shortened URL? That is where the concept of unshorten url becomes crucial.
What is a Shortened URL?
A shortened URL is a condensed version of a longer web address, created using URL shortening services like bit.ly, tinyurl, or goo.gl. These services take a long URL and transform it into a shorter, more manageable link. For example:
- Original URL:
https://www.example.com/articles/2025/07/how-to-improve-seo-ranking-step-by-step - Shortened URL:
https://bit.ly/3xYzABC
Shortened URLs are commonly used to save space in social media posts, SMS, or print media, and to make links easier to share.
What is Unshorten URL?
Unshorten URL is the process of expanding a shortened URL back to its original full-length form. It reveals the actual destination of the link hidden behind the short link. This process is useful for:
- Security: To verify the destination before clicking and avoid phishing or malicious websites.
- Transparency: To see where the link leads, especially when dealing with suspicious or unknown sources.
- Analytics: To track where the original link points for marketing or SEO purposes.
How Does Unshorten URL Work?
When you enter a shortened URL into an unshortening tool or service, it follows the redirect that the shortened link performs and extracts the final URL. Essentially, it simulates what your browser does when you click on the shortened link but stops at revealing the full destination instead of loading the page.
Step-by-Step Guide to Unshorten a URL
Here is a simple method to unshorten a URL safely and effectively:
Step 1: Copy the Shortened URL
Copy the shortened link you want to check.
Step 2: Use an Unshortening Service or Tool
There are many free online tools designed for this purpose, such as:
- CheckShortURL (checkshorturl.com)
- Unshorten.It (unshorten.it)
- GetLinkInfo (getlinkinfo.com)
Step 3: Paste the Shortened URL
Paste the copied URL into the input box of the chosen service.
Step 4: Analyze the Result
The tool will provide you the original full URL along with additional information such as website title, screenshot, and safety ratings.
Step 5: Verify the Destination
Check if the revealed URL is from a trusted source. If it looks suspicious, avoid clicking on it.
Why Should You Use Unshorten URL Services?
- Prevent Phishing Attacks: Malicious actors often use shortened URLs to disguise harmful websites.
- Avoid Spam and Malware: Unshortening helps in filtering spammy or malware-infected sites.
- Increase Transparency: Particularly important in professional settings, marketing, and social media.
- Improve User Trust: When sharing links, knowing the actual URL improves confidence for recipients.
Conclusion
Unshortening URLs is an essential practice in today’s digital communication to ensure safety, transparency, and better understanding of where a link leads. By using reliable unshortening tools, users can protect themselves from cyber threats and make informed decisions before clicking on any shortened link.