We mentioned the danger posed by the thumbnails URLs that are often used in place of full-length links. Whenever a complete URL is too long or too heavy, many users turn to URL shortening services like TinyURL. Unfortunately, a condensed URL that appears harmless can easily lead to a download malware or a phishing site, rather than the destination you were expecting. What appears to be a link to the home video of a friend may actually be pointing you toward the Koobface virus. Hackers can target a single URL shortening service and intentionally wrong route millions of users.
For locations of URL mini lead before clicking on them, stick them in a lengthening URL Service (naturally!) As TinyURL Decoder or Untiny. Untiny also offers browser add-ons that make it easy to see the full URL automatically. And, of course, protect against spam and malware with Internet security software.