Fake URL Detector
Paste a link to check its hostname, main domain, connection type, trusted and caution lists, and common scam or impersonation patterns.
Tip: If you see a Did you mean suggestion, only use it if it matches the site you actually intended to visit.
Quick facts
- Platform
- Desktop and mobile browser
- Typical time
- A few minutes
- Difficulty
- Beginner-friendly
- Input / output
- Follow the on-page instructions
About Fake URL Detector
Fake URL Detector is a browser-based security tool for checking suspicious links before you click. It identifies the hostname and main domain, checks local trusted and caution lists, and looks for warning signs such as lookalike domains, misleading subdomains, raw IP addresses, URL shorteners, unusual encoding, and other suspicious URL patterns.
How to use Fake URL Detector
Paste the URL into the tool and review the result, hostname, main domain, connection type, and reasons shown. Known domain means the address matches or sits under a domain in the local trusted list. Caution or Suspicious means you should inspect the address carefully. No obvious warning signs means no listed URL-pattern warning was found, not that the site has been confirmed safe.
Who Fake URL Detector is for
For people reviewing an unexpected link before deciding whether to open it. It suits a first check of messages claiming to come from a delivery company, marketplace or account provider.
What you can use Fake URL Detector for
Fake URL Detector can be useful for checking links from emails, text messages, social media posts, marketplace messages, suspicious login pages, and unexpected payment or delivery notices.
Features
- Shows the hostname, main domain, and connection type.
- Comparison against local trusted and caution lists.
- Checks for lookalike domains, misleading subdomains, raw IP addresses, URL shorteners, unusual encoding, and other suspicious URL patterns.
- Explains why a result was given and what to do next.
- Possible official-site suggestions for some suspicious lookalike addresses.
Tips for using Fake URL Detector
Look closely at the real domain, not just the brand name in the link. Scammers often use extra words, swapped letters, misleading subdomains, or urgent messages to make fake links look real.
Important warnings and limitations
The detector uses local domain lists and URL-pattern rules in your browser. It is not a live malware scan, reputation lookup, DNS check, or certificate check. A Known domain or No obvious warning signs result is not a guarantee that a page, account prompt, download, or destination is safe.
Data handling and privacy
Review the instructions before entering, uploading, copying, or storing information. Do not use passwords, private keys, recovery phrases, payment details, or other highly sensitive data unless you understand exactly how the tool handles it.
Related security tools
Fake URL Detector FAQ
Can Fake URL Detector guarantee a link is safe?
No. It can help spot warning signs, but you should still use caution with any suspicious link.
What should I do with a suspicious link?
Do not click it. Visit the official site directly by typing the address yourself or using a trusted bookmark.