ScamGuard

🔗 Check If A Link Is A Scam

Got a link from an SMS, WhatsApp message, email or DM and not sure? Paste it below — ScamGuard expands it, follows the redirects, and tells you if it's a scam.

What ScamGuard checks for

  • Short URL expansion (bit.ly, t.co, tinyurl)
  • Redirect chain inspection
  • Phishing & fake-login detection
  • Bank / courier / Microsoft spoofing flags
  • Malware & drive-by download checks
  • Safe inspection — you never open the link

⚠️ Red flags and warning signs

  • Shortened link from someone you don't know
  • URL looks like a real brand but with extra characters
  • Link claims you missed a delivery or owe a fee
  • Urgent message: 'verify now or your account closes'
  • Link goes to a login page you didn't request

Real scam examples

Fake delivery SMS

'Your package is held — pay R35 here: http://bit.ly/...' The link goes to a fake courier page that steals card details.

Fake bank alert

Email with a button to 'verify your account' linking to a lookalike domain. Steals your login and OTP.

How to protect yourself

  • Never tap unexpected links in SMS or DMs
  • Long-press a link to preview the URL before tapping
  • Open known brands by typing the URL yourself
  • Use ScamGuard on anything you're not 100% sure about
  • Enable 2FA so a stolen password isn't enough

ScamGuard tools you can use right now

Frequently asked questions

How do I check if a link is a scam?

Paste it into ScamGuard. We expand shortened URLs, follow every redirect server-side, and inspect the final destination for phishing, malware, fake-login pages and known scam patterns.

Is it safe to check a suspicious link here?

Yes. ScamGuard inspects the link server-side — you never open it in your own browser.

What about links from WhatsApp or SMS?

Those are the highest-risk channels. Copy the link, paste it in, and get a verdict before you tap. For full conversation analysis, use the WhatsApp scam checker.

Can it expand bit.ly and other short links?

Yes — ScamGuard expands shortened URLs and follows redirects so you see where the link really goes.

Is it free?

Yes — 3 free checks, no signup required.

Related ScamGuard checkers

Try ScamGuard free

1 free check, no signup needed. Then create an account for unlimited investigations.

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