Ever wondered where a link really goes before you click? Whether you’re wary of suspicious emails, shortened URLs, or just curious, finding a link’s true address is a crucial online skill.

The easiest method is to hover your cursor. On desktop browsers, simply move your mouse over the link. The full destination URL will appear in a small status box at the bottom-left corner of your window. This is your first line of defense against misleading text.

For mobile devices or more detailed investigation, long-press the link on your screen. A menu will pop up with options like “Copy Link Address” or “Open in New Tab.” This allows you to safely copy and examine the URL without visiting the site.

Shortened links from services like Bitly or TinyURL are trickier. For these, use a link expander service. Websites like CheckShortURL.com or WhereGoes.com let you paste the short link to reveal its full, final destination and any redirects in the chain.