Is this link or text message safe?
Got a text about a parcel fee, a CRA refund, an e-Transfer or a locked account? Paste the link or the whole message. We open it on our server, not your phone.
- Real destinationshorteners · up to 5 redirects
- Domainregistration date · http · risky endings
- Brand lookalikes46 banks · couriers · agencies
- Phone numberscarrier · line type · reports · FCC complaints
- Wordingfees · gift cards · CRA · locked accounts
Questions people ask
How can I tell if a link in a text message is safe?
Look at where it really goes, not what it shows. Shortened links (bit.ly, tinyurl and the like) hide the destination, so we follow them to the final page. Then we check whether that domain was registered recently, imitates a bank, courier or government agency, or uses plain http. A link to a domain registered a few weeks ago that borrows a brand name is almost always phishing.
Is it safe to paste a scam text here?
Yes. We read the links and phone numbers out of the text and do not store it. Our server opens each link once, so nothing loads on your phone or computer. We keep only a one-way hash of your IP address and the time, to limit each visitor to 30 checks a day.
I got a text about a parcel fee or a CRA refund. Is it real?
Almost never. Canada Post, Purolator, UPS and FedEx do not text links to pay redelivery or customs fees, and the Canada Revenue Agency does not send refunds or threats by text. Do not tap the link. Track a parcel on the courier's own site and check your CRA account by typing canada.ca yourself.
I already clicked the link. What should I do?
If you only opened it, close the page. If you typed a password, change it on the real site and turn on two-step verification. If you entered card or banking details, call your bank on the number on your card. Report the text by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM) and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.