I built URL Unshortener Pro, a Chrome extension and server-side tool to help security teams safely analyze shortened URLs and spot phishing threats.
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What it does:
• Visualizes the entire redirect chain of a shortened URL
• Detects trackers (GA, FB, ad networks)
• Flags potential phishing patterns (based on known structures, not VirusTotal)
• Fully server-side — links are scanned in a sandbox, not in your browser
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Why I built it:
After encountering several phishing links hidden in shortened URLs, I realized most tools either rely on VirusTotal or are client-side only. I wanted a way for teams to quickly triage suspicious links without depending on file reputation databases.
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Use Cases:
• Security teams vetting links from email, Slack, etc.
• Training employees to spot shady redirects
• Compliments existing tools like URLscan or browser extensions
lapcat · 19d ago
This should be a Show HN submission.
rbanffy · 19d ago
A long time ago, I made an "URL enlarger" for an April fools.
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What it does: • Visualizes the entire redirect chain of a shortened URL • Detects trackers (GA, FB, ad networks) • Flags potential phishing patterns (based on known structures, not VirusTotal) • Fully server-side — links are scanned in a sandbox, not in your browser
⸻
Why I built it: After encountering several phishing links hidden in shortened URLs, I realized most tools either rely on VirusTotal or are client-side only. I wanted a way for teams to quickly triage suspicious links without depending on file reputation databases.
⸻
Use Cases: • Security teams vetting links from email, Slack, etc. • Training employees to spot shady redirects • Compliments existing tools like URLscan or browser extensions