CyberGuard dictionary / Fraud & Online Safety
Malicious URL
A web address used to deliver harmful content, capture information, or redirect users deceptively.
In simple terms
A harmful link may look ordinary but lead to a scam, fake login, or unwanted download.
Technical explanation
The visible link text, actual URL, redirect chain, and script-driven navigation can differ; checking one signal alone is inconclusive.
A URL's hostname, path, scheme, and redirects matter more than its display text. Safe inspection also considers whether a page asks for credentials, downloads a file, or forwards the visitor elsewhere.
Examples in practice
An email button labeled “View document” opens a fake account sign-in page.
The visible button says the document is on a familiar service, but the link first opens a shortener and then a lookalike login page. The recipient opens the service from a saved bookmark instead.
Why it matters
Looking at the destination and using a known official address can prevent account theft.
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Sources and further reading
Published 2026-10-15 · Last updated 2026-10-15 · CyberGuard editorial content. Source links provide context; they do not imply endorsement.