Category: URL

Read blogs covering everything about URLs – optimization, tracking, structure, and best practices for smarter marketing.

URL Hijacking Uncovered: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Online Presence
What is URL Hijacking?

URL hijacking is when hackers redirect users to fake websites to trick them into sharing sensitive information. Once you land on the bogus site, you might be asked to provide your login credentials, financial information, or other sensitive data. This could lead to identity theft, financial losses, and other severe consequences.

It’s no surprise that digital marketers, bloggers, and website owners face a wide array of challenges, especially when their sites or brands start to take off on social media or search engines.

Most of us already know about hacking attempts on websites. However, most people don’t know about URL hijacking and how to prevent your website from it.

Since URLs are an essential part of online marketing, social media management, email marketing, and paid advertising, it’s vital to stay vigilant about the vulnerabilities attached to URLs.

We’ll try to go deep down into this topic and educate you on URL hijacking, its impact on brand positioning, and how to avoid it.

URL hijacking is a malicious technique utilized by cybercriminals to redirect users to fraudulent websites, where they might be prompted to disclose sensitive information. It is a cybersecurity threat where attackers manipulate website URLs to redirect users to a fake website that looks almost identical to the original one— making NIST cybersecurity compliance essential. The fake website aims to deceive users into providing sensitive information such as login credentials, personal details, or financial information. Therefore, it is imperative to exercise vigilance and implement protective measures such as verifying URLs, Employing anti-phishing software, implementing robust firewall solutions, and maintaining updated security protocols on all devices..

Types of URL Hijacking

1. Paid search hijacking

Paid search hijacking is a type of hijacking that involves putting an identical copy of a company’s ad in the paid search results, targeting the same target audience and reaching out to them by outbidding the ad of the actual brand with a few cents.

Mostly affiliate marketers who don’t abide by the rules and terms of the affiliate programs/networks are involved in playing such tricks on companies.

2. Browser hijacking

Browser hijacking is an activity of installing unwanted softwares to the web browser without the user’s consent for various reasons, such as spying on users, stealing their sensitive information, or bombarding them with adverts.

We all have had experiences, especially in the past, when clicking a link on a website opens a dozen more websites. Though most website builders use such strategies to gain more clicks and impressions on their display ads, it’s still a frowned-up tactic in the website-building community.

3. Typo-squatting

URL hijacking has a wide spectrum in the search engine marketing world, meaning it has different shapes and forms. Typo-squatting is a form of URL hijacking in which a person or company uses a misspelled version of the domain name to steal website visitors from the original website.

For instance, if a person tries to steal the traffic/users of netflix.com by registering a domain like neftlix.com, then it’s called typo-squatting – it’s just an example.

Anyway, some hackers or stinky website builders play such tricks on their competitors or top-notch companies by registering similar domain names and building websites to impersonate real brands or websites.
Related: How to Block a URL in Chrome?

What are hijacked domains used for?

It’s crystal clear that URL or domain hijacking has different levels, shapes and forms. I’ll shed some light on different patterns to look out for when identifying URL hijacking.

However, it’s important to learn why hackers hijack domains or URLs. When you know the evil purpose behind domain hijacking, you’ll be well-equipped to stop them and protect your online properties better.

Here are several reasons why domains are hijacked:

1. Stealing traffic

Website security is a serious concern for bloggers, website owners, and digital marketers. Hijacked domains can be used to steal traffic from legitimate websites. Attackers can create a website with a similar name to a legitimate website and use the hijacked domain to redirect traffic to their fake site.

This can result in legitimate traffic being redirected to the attacker’s site, potentially leading to financial loss for the legitimate site owner.
Related: Boost Your Website Traffic Through Social Media

2. SEO spam

SEO spam is a process in which an SEO desperately or intentionally tries to create backlinks to a website through blog commenting, link insertion, cold reach out, or other ways. The purpose of SEO spam is to generate backlinks so that they could benefit their website. However, it’s a negative SEO practice that is illegal and unethical.

In some cases, hijacked domains are used for SEO spam, which involves creating websites that are designed to manipulate search engine rankings. Some experts try to manipulate the SERP using their websites or hijacked domains.

The way it works is that they create multiple low-quality websites that link back to their main site, in an attempt to improve their website’s search engine ranking.
Related: How to Create an SEO Friendly URL: Ultimate Tips

3. Phishing attacks

Phishing is a type of cyberattack in which an attacker sends fraudulent communications (usually via email or social media DM) that appear to come from a legitimate source in order to trick the recipient into disclosing sensitive information or taking a certain action.

Hijacked domains can be used in phishing attacks as attackers can create URLs/links of legitimate websites to trick users into submitting their sensitive information or login credentials.

4. Email spam campaigns

Email marketing is an excellent digital marketing strategy. Brands and experts build email lists so that they don’t always rely on third-party platforms to interact with their followers. Hijacked domains can also be used in spam campaigns to distribute unsolicited emails.

Domain hijackers can use a hijacked domain to send spam emails that appear to come from a legitimate source, increasing the likelihood that the recipient will open the email and click on any links contained within it.

5. C2 Servers

Since there are various uses of hijacked domains, it’s hard to pin them down to just a few uses. Sometimes, hijackers steal domains to use for command and control (C2) servers for botnets or other types of malware. By using a hijacked domain as a C2 server, attackers can maintain control over infected devices and issue commands to them without being detected.

6. Malware distribution

Attackers could have different reasons for spreading the virus and malicious files, for instance, stealing passwords or credit card info, or code insertion. The problem is that they could use hijacked domains to distribute malware to the users.

Attackers can create websites that appear legitimate or spread the links via email or social media and the users who click on those links may end up compromising their online security.
Related: Easy Guide For Fixing URL Blacklist

7. Fake news websites

One of the use cases of hijacked domains is spreading fake news on the web. It’s easier to distribute disinformation and propaganda content through hijacked domains because it’s hard to track the original source. Often the domain hijacking victims have no idea how and where their certain pages or URLs are being misused for spreading fake information or data.

How to recognize URL hijacking?

If someone is new to digital marketing, they may have a hard time figuring out signs of URL hijacking. To make it easier for everyone to recognize URL hijacking, here are some common ways to recognize URL hijacking:

1. The URL looks strange:
If the URL looks different from what you would expect, it may have been hijacked. Look for misspellings, added characters, or unexpected domains in the URL.

2. The website looks different:
If you visit the URL and the website looks different from what you would expect, it may have been hijacked. Look for changes in the website’s layout, content, or functionality.

3. You are redirected to another website:
If you click on the URL and are redirected to a different website, it may have been hijacked. Check the URL of the website you are redirected to and see if it matches the original URL.

4. Your browser warns you:
Some browsers will warn you if they detect that a website may be unsafe or has been hijacked. If your browser displays a warning message, take it seriously and avoid visiting the website.

Why does URL hijacking occur?

It’s hard to pinpoint the cause of the URL hijacking to something specific because the reason may vary from case to case.

However, URL hijacking is a negative activity that doesn’t bring any good to the victim. Instead, it often damages the brand’s reputation, SEO growth, and website traffic.

Therefore, protective measures are imperative for online businesses, especially if you got competition in SEO.

No doubt that there is always an agenda behind URL hijacking, and the more you know about it, the easier it gets to figure out the problem, just in case.
Here are six of the common reasons why URL hijacking occurs:
1. To gain unauthorized access to a user’s device
2. To steal sensitive information, such as login credentials or personal data
3. To spread malware or ransomware
4. To redirect users to a malicious website that looks legitimate
5. To carry out further attacks or gain financial gain
6. To exploit vulnerabilities in a website’s security
How to prevent domain hijacking?

Here are several ways to avoid domain hijacking:

1. Trademark your domain:

Trademarking your domain helps establish legal ownership of your domain or brand which protects against infringement or domain hijacking. So don’t sleep on this preventive measure for the safety of your brand.

2. Monitor for impersonation sites:

Regularly monitor websites that may be impersonating your domain or brand, and take immediate action if you come across any. No one should be stealing your website traffic, brand value, and ROI.

3. Register other versions of your domain:

Registering different country top-level domain names can prevent others from registering them and using them for malicious purposes. You don’t necessarily need a separate website for each domain. Instead, you could redirect the additional domains to your main URL.

Related: How to rename a link?

4. Utilize HTTPS:

An SSL certificate is a must these days. In fact, all major web browsers prompt safety messages to visitors who visit unsecured websites. Getting an SSL certificate for your website is an essential step in securing your website, as it encrypts data transmitted between the user and the server.

5. Educate your staff/customers:

Educate your staff and customers to be aware of phishing scams and other forms of cyber attacks, and train them on how to prevent them. You might be able to avoid some malicious attacks.

6. Report false websites immediately:

If you come across a website that is impersonating your domain, report it to the relevant authorities immediately. Also, you could track down their web hosts and provide them with all the details. They might also take appropriate action on such websites.
Related: Track Your Success: How to Create a Tracking Link?

7. Disavow canonical links:

Disavowing canonical links means informing Google to ignore certain backlinks to your domain. It works as a proactive measure to be safe from search engine penalties. When search engines observe a disavowed canonical link, the chances are, it won’t be counted for or against you when ranking the specific pages in the SERP. It immensely helps against negative SEO.

8. Use URL hijacking removal tools:

Utilize software tools that can detect and remove hijacked URLs, preventing hackers from redirecting users to malicious sites. Try SEMrush, LinkResearchTools, or SISTRIX for this purpose.

6 SEO implications of URL hijacking

1. Losing search engine ranking:

Often when a website’s domain is hijacked, it may start to showcase some malicious activities that are a major red flag in the search engines’ eyes. It could result in a search engine ranking loss.

2. The decline in direct and organic traffic:

One of the setbacks for the hijacked domain is the traffic loss for the original site. The fake/manipulative URL may attract some of the original website’s traffic, leading to a decline in direct and organic traffic to the original website.

3. Massively affects brand positioning:

URL hijacking can massively impact a brand’s positioning by redirecting users to a completely different website that might not have the same brand values. Plus, some lookalike websites could steal customers and damage the brand’s reputation afterward.

4. The drop occurs in backlinks:

Backlinks are an essential SEO element. The problem with URL hijacking is that it could take away some of the backlinks to a website. Backlinks that were pointing to the original website will now be pointing to the hijacked website, leading to a drop in backlinks for the original website.

5. Search engines could flag the hijacked site:

Hackers could try to remove the original site from the SERP by filing DMCA complaints against the original site or hijacking the original site and portraying it as damaging for the end users. If search engines detect that a website’s URL has been hijacked, they may flag the hijacked site as spam or malicious, leading to further SEO implications.

6. Social media users are less likely to mention the site:

Social media plays a vital role in spreading the word about a brand or offer. When something goes wrong regarding domain hijacking, social media users may be less likely to mention or share the hijacked site, leading to a decline in social media traffic and brand awareness on social media platforms.

What is the impact of URL hijacking on brands?

URL hijacking can have severe impacts on a brand’s growth, clientele, and reputation. It’s vital to keep an eye out for such activities. However, it’s also important to understand the implications that URL hijacking may cause to help create preventive measures.

Let’s take a look at some of the impacts of URL hijacking on brands:

1. Loss of revenue:

URL hijacking can lead to a loss of revenue, as cybercriminals redirect potential customers to fake websites, resulting in lost sales. In some cases, credit card info gets stolen as a result of a security breach. Eventually, it becomes difficult for customers to trust the same website, leading to a decrease in repeat business and referrals.

2. Reduced customer loyalty:

No doubt that URL hijacking gets more damaging when customers get upset over the problem it causes. The issue is that it can affect customers’ loyalty when customers may feel deceived no matter what negative experience they have had as a result of URL hijacking. This can result in a loss of trust, decreased customer satisfaction, and a decline in customer retention.

3. Shrinking brand value:

URL hijacking can diminish a brand’s value, as it can damage the brand’s reputation and result in negative publicity. It’s a nightmare for any brand because it gets difficult for the brand to attract new customers and retain existing ones, leading to a decline in market share.

4. Identity theft:

Identify theft refers to stealing personal information and impersonating someone else in person or online. URL hijacking could lead to several problems and identity theft is one of them. Since hackers can use fake websites to steal personal information such as names, addresses, and credit card details, it could lead to financial troubles for the victim. As a result, it could lead to long-term financial repercussions.

5. Data breach:

URL hijacking is also used to breach data on websites, apps, and emails. Cybercriminals can use victims’ website URLs or lookalike URLs to gain access to sensitive data such as customer information, trade secrets, and financial data. This can result in significant financial losses, legal liabilities, and reputational damage.

Last thoughts on URL hijacking

No wonder brands, digital marketers, and affiliate bloggers spend hundreds of thousands of dollars and countless hours of work into building authoritativeness, trustworthiness, and online reputation. And when people go through such a bad experience or identify a red flag regarding their website or brand’s growth, it makes them want to tear their eyes out.

The purpose of this article is to educate everyone operating websites, online brands, or blogs that URL hijacking is real and what needs to be done just in case.

The gist of this piece is that you can hire all the cybersecurity experts and website analysts you want to tighten up your website security – something could still go wrong under your nose.

The only way to protect your brand is to educate yourself on cybersecurity and take every preventive measure possible.

FAQs about URL hijacking

Where are 301 and 302 redirects used?

A 301 redirect is a permanent redirect that informs search engines and browsers that a page or URL has moved permanently to a new location. It is used when you want to redirect an old URL to a new URL permanently without affecting the SEO rankings.

A 302 redirect is a temporary redirect that informs search engines and browsers that a page or URL has moved temporarily to a new location. This redirect is used when a website is undergoing maintenance or when a page is temporarily unavailable for some reason. Unlike a 301 redirect, a 302 redirect does not transfer the SEO rankings to the new URL.

What is reverse domain hijacking?

Reverse domain hijacking refers to the attempt of a trademark owner to obtain a domain name (or a different TLD of the brand name) by making false or misleading claims of infringement, even though the domain name was registered before the trademark was established.

How to prevent potential HTTPS URL hijacking?

There are various types of domain security certificates that one can buy to protect the domain and website from potential hacking and malicious attempts.

To prevent potential HTTPS URL hijacking, you can use a Certificate Authority that issues SSL/TLS certificates for your domain name and configure your web server to use HTTPS for all connections. Additionally, you should monitor your domain name’s DNS settings and make sure that no unauthorized changes are made.

What is the difference between URL hijacking and URL phishing, spoofing, or typo-squatting?

URL hijacking is the act of taking control of a domain name to redirect traffic to another website, while URL phishing, spoofing, or typo-squatting are different types of attacks that use deceptive tactics to trick users into visiting a fraudulent website.

Are redirects harmful? What is the risk of URL redirection?

Unwanted redirects could be damaging to the website’s SEO growth. Hackers could redirect website visitors to a malicious website or to a website that is not relevant to their search query.

The risk of URL redirection also includes the loss of link equity and potential impact on website ranking, especially if the redirection is not done correctly or the redirect target is not trustworthy.

Unwanted redirects are one of the tools of the negative SEO arsenal, so watch out for that.
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May 2, 2023
Easy guide For fixing URL blacklist

What is URL Blacklist?

A URL blacklist is a list of website addresses (URLs) that are identified as potentially harmful or malicious by security organizations, internet service providers, or other entities. When a website is blacklisted, it is often blocked or flagged by web filters and security software to prevent users from accessing it.

The URLs listed on these blacklists are often identified through automated scans or reports from users who have encountered suspicious websites. URL blacklisting is done to protect the end-user’s privacy, sensitive information, and important data against hacking attempts or malware attacks.

Website owners, bloggers, and digital marketers rely on several channels and attention sources, such as social media, email lists, blogs, online communities, and advertising.

However, most of these channels drive the audience to the website for conversion, no matter how long it takes to build a relationship between a brand and the prospective customer.

No wonder entrepreneurs, bloggers, and affiliate marketers pay close attention to setting up their websites along with sales/landing pages, blog sections, and email newsletter opt-in forms.

It’s no surprise that a well-designed and optimized website is crucial to your digital marketing campaign’s success.

Speaking of website optimization, URLs play a key role in optimizing the website pages. Therefore, it’s essential to discuss URL blacklisting, and more importantly, how to fix the URL blacklisting issue.

If you have no idea about URL or website blacklisting and you’re confused right now, don’t worry about it, because we’ve got this covered.

Pay attention to every section of this very article.

1.0 Is URL blacklist dangerous?

Are you curious whether or not URL blacklisting is bad for your business? Always remember that businesses grow on relationships and reputation. A brand needs to establish strong brand positioning in the audience’s mind.

Since URL blacklisting destroys a brand’s reputation, online reach, and business development ability to the core, it’s surely not something any brand or business owner would want to be associated with.

More importantly, if a brand or entrepreneur somehow ends up getting their URLs blacklisted on search engines or social media platforms, it affects their communication, reach, and marketing. I do not doubt that URL blacklisting is quite dangerous for any business or personal brand.
The impact of URL blacklisting has been discussed in detail further in the article. But before that

1.1 What do blacklist warning messages look like?

When websites or some of the website URLs are blacklisted, a warning message may appear in web browsers regardless of the operating system. These warning messages typically alert the user that the website is potentially dangerous, and advise them to proceed with caution or avoid the site altogether.

Here are some common URL blacklist warning messages:

This site may be harmful to your computer:

This message is often displayed by web browsers such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox when a website is detected as containing malware or other potentially harmful content.

Also Read: How to Block a URL in Chrome?

The site ahead contains malware:

This message is also displayed by some web browsers when a website is detected as affected by malware.

This website has been reported as a phishing site:

This message is displayed by some web browsers when a website is detected as being a phishing site.

This connection is not private:

This message is displayed by web browsers when a website’s security certificate is invalid or expired.

Also Read: Long URL Problem Solved: Use Cases and Examples

1.2 How does URL blacklist affect your website and business?

Being on a URL blacklist can have serious consequences for a website and brand. Here are 9 ways in which URL blacklisting can impact your website and businness:

1. Decreased visibility in the SERP

When a website is blacklisted, it may be removed from search engine results in pages or pushed down in rankings. This can lead to a significant decrease in traffic to the website, as users are less likely to find it through search.

2. Loss of trust by users

When a website is flagged as potentially dangerous, users may lose trust in the website and its content. This can lead to a decrease in engagement, as users may be hesitant to interact with the website or share its content.

This loss of trust could result in customers seeking out alternative providers and ultimately harm the website’s long-term sustainability. Losing customers’ trust is the last thing any brand or e-commerce website would want to happen.

3. Brand reputation at stake

If your website is associated with malware or other malicious activity, it can damage your brand’s reputation and credibility. This can have a long-term impact on your business, as consumers may be less likely to do business with you in the future. As users may view the website as untrustworthy, which could harm the website’s brand image and make it challenging to establish trust with potential customers.

4. The security risk for visitors

If your website is blacklisted due to malware or other security issues, it could pose a risk to your visitors. Malicious software can infect users’ devices or steal personal information, which can lead to legal issues and also damage your brand’s reputation.

5. Revenue losses

If your website relies on advertising or e-commerce, being blacklisted can result in a significant loss of revenue. Advertisers may be hesitant to place ads on a potentially dangerous website, and customers may be less likely to make purchases if they don’t trust the website.

6. Difficult to get rid of

Getting off a URL blacklist can be a long and difficult process. You may need to identify and remove all malicious content from your website, and then submit a request to the entity that added you to the list. This process can take time, and during that time your website may continue to experience negative consequences.

7. Decrease website traffic

One of the most painful things that happen to a website is when the traffic graph goes down for whatever reason. Once a website is blacklisted, it is likely to be excluded from search results and flagged as potentially harmful by web browsers, leading to a decrease in website traffic. Users may be warned about accessing the site or redirected to a warning page, which could deter them from visiting the site altogether.

8. Reduced conversion rate

If a website’s traffic and credibility are affected, its conversion rate, i.e., the number of visitors who take a desired action, such as making a purchase or filling out a form, is likely to decrease. This could harm the website’s revenue and profitability.

9. Affect organic visitors

Organic website traffic is an essential source of visitors for millions of websites around the web. Organic visitors are users who find a website through search engine results, and when a website is blacklisted, it is likely to be removed from search engine results pages. This could significantly affect the website’s visibility and reduce the number of organic visitors.

Also Read: 7 Ways to Increase CTR for Better Conversion on the Website

1.3 How blacklisted URL affects website SEO performance?

URL blacklisting comes with loads of problems for a brand or organization. It could be fatal for brand reputation and SEO performance if not fixed immediately.

Search engine optimization has become extremely competitive. When a website gets expelled from the good books of search engines, it’s not easy to crawl back to the same position.

Once something goes wrong, it takes sheer hard work and a lot of time to win the same position back in the SERP.

Here’s how blacklisted URLs affect a website’s SEO performance:

1. Triggers traffic loss

One of the most devastating issues webmasters and companies face when their URLs get blacklisted is that their website traffic takes a hit. It results in a revenue decrease, no matter the size or scale of the organization. More website visitors mean more revenue, it’s that simple.

2. Rankings start to drop

Since website page rankings are a crucial part of the SEO process, URL blacklisting causes the ranking to drop in search engines. The reason behind this issue is that search engines want to provide their users with the best experience when they’re using them. Any turbulence during the search process that causes the end-user to get frustrated is a serious matter for search engines.

3. Decrease in inbound links

People want to link to authoritative and trustworthy websites. When a website’s URL gets blacklisted by Google, it eventually sends out a negative message to others in the industry. Nobody wants to link out to a spammy and blacklisted website, because every company or website wants their users to have a great experience when they browse their website or reading their content.

4. Bad user experience for visitors

When a website’s URL is blacklisted by Google or any other search engine, it directly affects the user experience. The web browsers may block those websites with blacklisted URLs and anti-virus softwares to start notifying the visitors with cautionary messages forcing users to exit the websites for safety purposes. Therefore, it results in a bad user experience for the end-user.

5. Dip in the website conversions

Nobody wants to spend money using their credit card or PayPal account if there is a hint of malware or malicious activities on the website. While URL blacklisting affects the SEO performance of the website, it also decreases the website conversion rate very quickly.

Also Read: 15 Proven Facebook SEO Techniques To Increase Brand Visibility

2.0 How does a website URL get blacklisted?

URL blacklisting is the process of adding a website’s URL to a blacklist filter, usually maintained by search engines, web browsers, or anti-virus softwares, due to various reasons such as spamming, malware distribution, or other malicious activities.

It’s vital to understand a website ends up getting flagged by search engines, web browsers, or anti-virus softwares. So I came up with a list of reasons why a website’s URLs get blacklisted:

1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks involve tricking users into providing sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, or credit card details through fraudulent websites or emails. If a website is found to be hosting a phishing attack, its URL may be blacklisted to protect users from falling victim to the scam.

2. SEO Spamming

SEO spamming involves manipulating search engine rankings through various unethical practices such as keyword stuffing, cloaking, and link spamming. If a website is found to be engaging in such practices, search engines may blacklist its URL to maintain the quality and relevance of search results.

Also Read: How to Create a SEO Friendly URL: Ultimate Tips

3. Unsafe Plugins/Libraries

Website owners often use third-party plugins or libraries to add functionality to their websites. However, if these plugins or libraries are found to have security vulnerabilities, they can be exploited by hackers to gain access to the website’s server. In such cases, the website’s URL may be blacklisted until the vulnerabilities are fixed.

4. Website Defacement

Website defacement refers to the unauthorized modification of a website’s content or appearance. This could be done for political, ideological, or malicious reasons. If a website is defaced, its URL may be blacklisted until the website owner restores it to its original state.

5. Trojan Horses

A Trojan horse is a type of malware that disguises itself as a legitimate program or software. Once installed on a computer, it can perform various malicious activities, such as stealing sensitive information or damaging files. If a website is found to be hosting a Trojan horse, its URL may be blacklisted to prevent users from unknowingly downloading the malware.

6. Malware Codes

Malware code is a type of malicious software designed to infect computers and cause harm. If a website is found to be hosting malware code, its URL may be blacklisted to prevent users from being infected.
Also Read: What Does HTTP 302 Code Means For URL Shorteners?

7. Vulnerabilities in the server

Server vulnerabilities can be exploited by hackers to gain unauthorized access to a website’s files and data. If a website’s server is found to have vulnerabilities, its URL may be blacklisted until the vulnerabilities are fixed.

8. Suspicious download links

If a website includes suspicious download links that lead to potentially harmful software or files, its URL may be blacklisted to protect users from downloading such content.

9. Malicious content

If a website is found to contain malicious content, such as viruses or spyware, its URL may be blacklisted to prevent users from being infected.

10. Downloading unwanted programs

If a website prompts users to download unwanted or potentially harmful programs, its URL may be blacklisted to protect users from downloading such programs.

11. Information scraping

Information scraping involves the unauthorized harvesting of data from websites. Using reliable web scraping software ensures compliance with legal and ethical guidelines, helping avoid copyright violations and potential blacklisting. If a website is found to be scraping information from other websites without permission, its URL may be blacklisted for violating copyright and intellectual property laws.

2.1 How do you check if Google has blacklisted you?

There are clear signs and indications to figure out whether or not Google has blacklisted or penalized your website. I’ll dig deeper into this and try to help you out by sharing what I know.

Here are the indicators to look out for when checking if Google has blacklisted your site:

1. Page removal from the search index:

One of the clear indicators of Google blacklisting a URL or a set of URLs from the same website is the removal of the website’s pages from its search index. What it means is that your site is no longer appearing in Google search results.

This could be a sign that Google has blacklisted your website, possibly due to a violation of Google’s Webmaster Guidelines.

2. The huge dip in organic traffic:

Website owners keep an eye on the traffic numbers of their websites. As soon as they notice a significant drop in your website’s organic traffic (without any notification), it could be due to Google blacklisting the website for some reason.

This could happen if Google has removed your website’s pages from its search index or if your website’s ranking has been penalized.

3. Manual penalty for the site:

Manual penalty could lead to up to 90% drop in traffic or the website URL getting blacklisted. If you receive a manual penalty notification in the Google Search Console, it means Google has identified a violation of its Webmaster Guidelines on your website.
This could be due to black hat SEO techniques, such as keyword stuffing, misleading content, or link-building schemes. A manual penalty can result in your website being removed from Google’s search results or a significant drop in organic traffic.

4. Malware notification in the Google SERP:

If a website has been infected with malware, Google may detect it and warn users in its search results with a notification that the website may be harmful. The notification may look like this: This site may harm your computer.” This can lead to a decrease in traffic and a damaged reputation.

If Google has identified malware on your website, it could lead to URL blacklisting. If the malware notification appears with your URLs in the SERP, ask your website host to scan your website for malware and hire a website developer to do code inspection for code injection. It’s always best to change the web hosting if the problem persists.

3.0 How to protect the site from being blacklisted?

Building an optimized, well-designed website for marketing isn’t enough. Often, it’s vital to protect a website property from fatal attacks that could turn out to be a pain in the butt if not taken seriously. While at the same time, it’s easy to get caught up in other marketing strategies which leads to putting website security and SEO techniques often on the back burner.

If you need a precise plan of action to avoid URL blacklisting, then the following 10 tips would come in handy for you:

1. Use a secure web hosting service:

Choose a web host that is reliable and provides a secure environment for your website. This can help prevent your website from being compromised or hacked, which can lead to blacklisting.

2. Choose a high-quality theme & plugins:

Make sure your website code and layout are clean and optimized for search engines. It can help prevent any issues that may cause search engines to blacklist your website. A premium, high-quality WordPress theme would do the job for you. Secondly, use only genuine and premium plugins/themes on your website to ensure that they are secure and optimized for search engines. Using pirated or un-trusted plugins/themes can lead to security risks and blacklisting.

3. Improve your website security:

Use a reputable website security tool to scan your website to ensure it is free from any malicious code or scripts. Moreover, monitor your website for any suspicious activity and take action immediately if you suspect any security issues. This can help prevent your website from being compromised or hacked.

4. Assign user roles and permissions:

Assign user roles and permissions to ensure that only authorized users have access to your website. This can help prevent unauthorized access, which can lead to security risks and blacklisting.

5. Install an SSL certificate:

Use HTTPS encryption on your website, meaning buy and install an SSL certificate on your domain. Install an SSL certificate on your website to ensure that all communication between your website and users is encrypted and secure. This will help prevent security risks and blacklisting. Contact your domain and hosting provider for the SSL certificate installation.

6. Update your WordPress edition:

It’s important to keep your website software and plugins up to date. Outdated software can be vulnerable to security threats, and updating it can help prevent your website from being compromised. Keep your WordPress edition up to date, and ensure that your website is secure and optimized for search engines. It may also help prevent site security issues that lead to URL blacklisting.

7. Apply white hat SEO techniques:

Use only ethical and legitimate SEO techniques to optimize your website for search engines. Using black hat techniques can lead to blacklisting. Avoid using black hat SEO techniques. These tactics can include cloaking, hidden text, bulk backlinks, and other manipulative tactics that violate search engine guidelines.

8. Limit WP login attempts:

Limit the number of login attempts on your website to prevent brute force attacks and hacking attempts. Plus, keep a strong login password for your WP admin account.

9. Replace broken links:

Regularly check for broken links on your website and replace them to ensure that your website is functioning properly. While broken links may not lead to URL blacklisting, it sure sends out an SEO signal.

10. Implement a DMARC policy

Implement a DMARC policy to help prevent email spoofing and phishing attacks. This will help protect your domain reputation and prevent your website from being blacklisted by email providers. 25.5% of email senders who use p=none policy expect to move to stronger DMARC policy in the course of the next year which further showcase the important of using stronger email authentication standards.

3.1 How to access website with URL blacklist warning?

Your website browser might prompt a warning notification to exit the website or move ahead with caution. It’s always best to keep your anti-virus software active and updated just in case.

Furthermore, try to understand the essence of the blacklist warning. Often the expiration or the absence of the SSL certificate prompts a warning message on the website. Some website visitors who have no idea about an SSL certificate, chicken out immediately.

Similarly, if your anti-virus software warns that there is a serious threat of malware or phishing attack on the website you’re browsing, you shouldn’t move forward. Instead, try to exit the website and find an alternative website to visit.

3.2 When to block and allow URLs?

Before figuring out when to block or allow URLs, it’s important to comprehend how URL blocking works.

There are levels of URL blocking. On the user level, you may install a Chrome extension for blocking the website and blacklist the website URLs you want to block. This way, no one on your PC would be able to access those URLs.

Furthermore, there is country-level URL blocking where a governing body orders the concerned department to block a specific website on a state or country level.

So URL blocking could be due to any reason, for instance, national security, blasphemy, rules violation, etc. The decision to block or unblock a URL depends on the case and the reason varies from case to case.

4.0 Conclusion on URL Blacklisting

I do not doubt that URL blacklisting is an important tool that helps protect users from visiting websites that are deemed unsafe, malicious, or contain harmful content.

Search engines and web browsers use site filtering systems to identify and block access to such blacklisted websites, thereby preventing users from being exposed to potential security risks or malicious content.

While URL blacklisting is an effective tool, website owners must take measures to ensure that their websites comply with search engine guidelines and do not engage in any malicious activity that may lead to URL blacklisting.

By taking proactive steps to maintain website security, website owners can help prevent their websites from being blacklisted and ensure that their websites remain safe for users to visit.

A lot of digital marketers, bloggers, and entrepreneurs prefer using URL shorteners to share their content on social media.

While there are so many benefits of using link management tools, one of the reasons is to hide the main URLs from suspicious users and hackers on social media.

I hope you learned a lot about URL blacklisting and taking away a ton of value from this article.

5.0 FAQs about URL blacklisting

Is URL blacklist a virus?

URL blacklisting isn’t a virus, but malicious viruses on the web server could lead to URL blacklisting in search engines. So always keep an eye on your website performance and security.

Is a blacklist permanent?

URL blacklisting may last until the appropriate actions aren’t taken to clean the website code or change the web hosting server to ensure a smooth and safe user experience for the website visitors.

What does blacklist mean in security?

Blacklisting refers to the act of being flagged by an authority or a platform. The cybersecurity experts educate and help audience the audience on the security of websites, apps, email addresses, and social media accounts.

What kind of websites will the search engine blacklist?

Any website that contains malicious viruses, phishing codes, and suspicious scripts may get blacklisted by search engines.

How can I check if my site is blacklisted?

There are several ways to check the site’s blacklisting status, such as hiring a cybersecurity expert, using an online URL blacklist checker tool, and keeping an eye on the site status in your Google Search Central account.

Are blacklisted URLs and blacklisted domains the same thing?

Blacklisted URLs mean the specific page URLs have been blacklisted, whereas the blacklisted domains mean the complete websites have been blacklisted.

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April 18, 2023
How to share LinkedIn URL?
You can expand your professional network by sharing your LinkedIn URL with other professionals in your industry. This can lead to new business opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations. It can also help you stay informed about your field’s latest trends and developments.

For job seekers, sharing your LinkedIn URL can be useful in the job search process. It allows potential employers to learn more about your qualifications and experience and can help to showcase your skills and accomplishments.

For businesses, sharing a LinkedIn URL can be a useful tool for marketing. It allows businesses to promote their products or services and reach a wider audience. It also allows businesses to establish themselves as thought leaders in their industry, which can lead to new business opportunities.

Finally, for freelancers, creatives, and entrepreneurs, sharing a LinkedIn URL can be a good way to showcase their work and portfolio. It allows them to promote their skills and accomplishments to a broader audience, which can lead to new business opportunities and collaborations.

Read Now: How to Shorten a link using a URL shortener?

Let’s start by going over how to share LinkedIn URL:

How to share LinkedIn URL in LinkedIn messages?

On a computer device:

Step 1: Log in to LinkedIn on your computer device and click the profile “Me” icon at the top.

Step 2: Click “view profile” from the drop-down menu.

Also read: How to shorten LinkedIn URL?

Step 3: Click the “more” button on your profile page, then click “send profile in a message.”

Step 4: Enter in the names of the people with whom you want to share your profile, and click send.

Also read: How to Create The Perfect LinkedIn Content Strategy in 10 Easy Steps [Advanced Tactics Included]

On a mobile device:

Step 1: Log in to LinkedIn on your mobile phone and tap the “profile icon” in the top left corner.

[branded_short_links]

Step 2: Tap “view profile” from the menu to open your profile.

Also read: 20 Best LinkedIn Post Ideas

Step 3: Tap “three dots” next to add section button, then tap “share profile via message.”

Step 4: Enter the names of the person to whom you want to share your LinkedIn URL.

Step 5: Tap the send icon to send your profile via message.

Also Read: LinkedIn Retargeting using Matched Audiences; A Complete Guide

How to share LinkedIn URL on other platforms?

Follow this method to share your LinkedIn URL outside LinkedIn. It could be any social media platform other than LinkedIn. You just need to copy your LinkedIn URL and for that, follow the steps below:

On a computer device:

Step 1: Log in to LinkedIn on your computer device and click the profile “Me” icon at the top.

Step 2: Click “view profile” from the drop-down menu.

Also read: A Comprehensive Guide to Generate Leads With Social Media

Step 3: Copy the URL in the URL bar, and you’ll have your Linked URL. Share this URL on any platform of your choice.

Also Read: How to change Shopify URL for sharing on social media?

On a mobile device:

Step 1: Log in to LinkedIn on your mobile phone and tap the “profile icon” in the top left corner.

Step 2: Tap “view profile” from the menu to open your profile.

Step 3: Tap “three dots” next to add section button, then tap “share profile via.”

Step 4: Tap the copy URL button to copy the URL or share directly to your intended platform.

Read Now: What Is A Vanity URL &; How To Track It?

FAQs

How to share LinkedIn URL on the resume?

You can add your LinkedIn URL to your resume by including it in the contact section. This is typically located at the top of the resume and includes your name, address, phone number, and email address. You can add “LinkedIn: [Your LinkedIn URL]” or simply “LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/[Your Profile Name].”

How to shorten LinkedIn URL?

LinkedIn has its own feature to shorten the LinkedIn profile URL, and you can follow these steps to shorten your URL:
- Log in to your LinkedIn account.
- Click on me icon in the top bar and select view profile.
- Click on the edit public profile & URL button on the right side of the top of your profile.
- Scroll down to the Public Profile URL section, and click the Edit button on the right side.
- You can customize your public profile URL by clicking on the Edit button and then changing your URL to something easy to remember and share.
Alternatively, you can use link-shortening services like Replug to shorten your LinkedIn URL if you want it to be more memorable or to fit in a limited space.

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How to get your TikTok Profile URL?
Are you a TikTok user looking to share your profile with others or promote your content on other social media platforms? Or maybe you’re just curious about how to access your TikTok profile link? Either way, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of getting your TikTok profile URL. TikTok URLs are important for building a following, sharing content, and engaging with viewers. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge necessary to easily find and customize your TikTok profile URL, allowing you to share your content and grow your TikTok presence.

So, let’s dive in and learn how to get your TikTok URL!

Also read: How to create a TikTok account?

What is my TikTok URL?

A TikTok URL is a link that directs you to a specific TikTok user’s profile or video.

Every TikTok user has a unique URL associated with their profile, which can be shared with others to allow them to view their content or follow them on the platform. The TikTok URL for a user’s profile typically includes their username and the TikTok domain, such as “tiktok.com/@username”.

TikTok URLs can also be used to direct viewers to specific videos on the platform. Each TikTok video has its own unique URL, which can be found by clicking on the “Share” icon on the video and selecting “Copy Link.” This link can then be shared with others or posted on social media platforms.

How to get TikTok Profile URL?

There are two methods to get a TikTok profile link on mobile devices.
1. From the edit profile button
2. From setting & privacy
Follow the steps below for both of the methods to easily get your profile link.

Also read: How to get more followers on TikTok?

Method 1: From the edit profile button

Step 1: Open the TikTok app on your mobile device.

Step 2: Tap on your profile icon at the bottom right corner of the screen.

Also read: TikTok Bio Ideas &; Hacks to Drive Traffic

Step 3: Tap the “Edit profile” button.

Step 4: Tap your profile URL below your username to copy your profile URL.

Also read: How To Save TikTok Videos Without The Watermark?

Method 2: From setting and Privacy

Step 1: Open the TikTok app on your mobile device.

Step 2: Tap on your profile icon at the bottom right corner of the screen.

Step 3: Tap three horizontal lines at the top right of the screen.

Also read: How to delete a TikTok account?

Step 4: Tap on “setting and privacy”.

Step 5: Tap on “share profile”.

Also read: How to delete TikTok videos?

Step 6: Copy your profile link or share it directly on social media platforms.

Also read: How to check analytics on TikTok?

How to change your TikTok Profile URL?

Changing your TikTok Profile URL is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to change your TikTok Profile URL:

Step 1: Open the TikTok app on your mobile device.

Step 2: Tap on your profile icon at the bottom right corner of the screen to open your profile.

Step 3: Tap “Edit Profile.”

Also read: How to link Instagram to TikTok?

Step 4: Tap on your TikTok username.

Step 5: Enter a new username for your profile. Make sure it’s unique and not already taken.

Step 6: Click “Save” to update your username.

Also read: TikTok Trends for Businesses, Brands, and Others

Note: Once you’ve updated your username, your TikTok Profile URL will also be updated with your new username. This process may take a few minutes to reflect the changes, so don’t worry if your old username still appears for a short time.

It’s important to note that you can only change your TikTok username once every 30 days. So, make sure to choose a username that you’re happy with and that represents your brand or personality. Additionally, changing your username may also affect the discoverability of your content, as users may have saved or shared your previous username.

FAQs

How do I add a clickable link to my TikTok bio?

You can add a clickable link to your TikTok bio by going to your profile, clicking “Edit profile,” and then entering the URL in the “Website” field. Note that this feature is only available to users with over 1,000 followers.

Also read: How To Put A Link In TikTok Bio?

How do I use a TikTok URL to direct viewers to a specific video on the platform?

You can use the specific video’s URL to direct viewers to a specific video on TikTok. Just copy the URL of the video you want to share and share it with your viewers.

How do I find the TikTok URL for a specific video?

You can find the TikTok URL for a specific video by clicking on the “Share” icon located on the video’s page and selecting “Copy Link.”

Can I change the URL for a specific TikTok video?

No, you cannot change the URL for a specific TikTok video.

Can I use my TikTok profile URL to promote my brand or business?

Yes, you can use your TikTok profile URL to promote your brand or business by sharing it on other social media platforms or using it in your marketing materials.

How do I check the analytics for my TikTok URL and track clicks and engagement?

You can view your TikTok analytics by going to your profile, clicking on the three dots in the top right corner, and selecting “Analytics.” From there, you can view metrics like views, engagement, and follower growth.

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How to get the Snapchat URL?

Snapchat is one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, known for its unique features that allow users to share pictures and videos that disappear after a set amount of time. With millions of daily active users, Snapchat has become a go-to platform for sharing candid moments with friends and family.

However, have you ever wanted to share your Snapchat profile with someone who doesn’t have the app, or include your Snapchat handle on your website or social media profiles?

In this article, we will show you how to get your Snapchat URL and share it with the world, so that you can connect with more people and expand your social circle.

So, whether you’re a seasoned Snapchat user or just getting started, keep reading to learn how to get your Snapchat URL and make your profile more visible to others.

Also read: How to create a QR code for a URL?

How to get your Snapchat URL?

Getting your Snapchat URL on a mobile device is a quick and easy process that can be completed in just a few simple steps. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Open the Snapchat app on your mobile device.

Step 2: Tap on your profile icon in the top left corner of the screen to access your profile.

Also read: How to find my Twitter URL on mobile and desktop?

Step 3: Tap the share icon in the top right corner.

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Step 4: Tap the “copy” button at the bottom left corner and that’s all there is to it.

Whether you’re looking to connect with new friends, promote your brand or business, or simply share your Snap stories with a wider audience, having your Snapchat URL readily available can be a great way to expand your reach and build your online presence.

Also read: How to Shorten a link using a URL shortener?

FAQs

What is a Snapchat URL?

A Snapchat URL is a link to your Snapchat profile that can be shared with others. It allows people who don’t have the Snapchat app to view your profile and connect with you.

Is my Snapchat URL public?

Your Snapchat URL is not public by default. However, if you share your URL with others, they will be able to view your profile and connect with you.

Can I get my Snapchat URL on both mobile and computer devices?

No, you cannot get your Snapchat URL on computer devices. You can only get your Snapchat URL on a mobile device.

What is my Snapchat username?

Your Snapchat username is the unique identifier that you created when you signed up for your Snapchat account. It should be the name that appears in your profile, and it’s also the name that your friends can use to add you to the app. If you’re not sure what your Snapchat username is, you can open the Snapchat app and check your profile to see what name appears at the top of the screen.

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How to get the URL of a photo in seconds?

A picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes you need the URL of that picture to make it work for you. Whether you want to share a hilarious meme, add an image to your website, or simply want to save a photo for later, knowing how to get the URL of an image can be a game-changer.

In this article, we’ll reveal some simple yet effective methods to help you get the URL of any image you come across, even if it seems impossible at first glance.

Also Read: How to find my Twitter URL on mobile and desktop?

Here’s how to get the URL of a photo on different devices:

How to get the URL of an image on a computer?

Step 1: Open Chrome and go to images.google.com on your computer device.

Also Read: How to create a QR code for a URL?

Step 2: Enter a word or phrase (keyword) related to the image you’re searching for in the Google images search box and press enter.

Step 3: In the image results, click the image you are looking for.

Also Read: How to shorten LinkedIn URL?

Step 4: Click three horizontal dots in the top right, then click share.

Step 5: Click “Click to copy link,” and you will have the image URL.

Also Read: How do I find my URL on Youtube?

How to get the URL of a photo on a mobile:

Here’s how to get the URL of a photo on a mobile device:

Step 1: On your phone or tablet, open the Google app, Chrome app Chrome, or Firefox.

Step 2: Go to “images.google.com” to open google images.

Also Read: How to Shorten a link using a URL shortener?

Step 3: Search for the image you’re looking for by entering the keyword in the Google images search box.

Step 4: In the image results, tap on the image you want to get a larger version.

Step 5: Tap three dots in the upper right corner of the image, then tap share.

Step 6: Tap “copy URL,” and you’ll have the image URL.

Also Read: What is a Tracking URL and How Does it Work?

FAQs

What is an image URL?

An image URL is a web address that identifies the location of an image file on the internet. It is a unique address that allows you to access and display the image on a webpage or in an application.

How can I test if an image URL is valid?

To test if an image URL is valid, you can simply paste the URL into a web browser and try to load the image. If the image loads successfully, then the URL is valid. If the image fails to load or returns an error, then the URL may be invalid, or the image may no longer be available at that location.

Can I change the URL of an image without affecting its content?

No, changing the URL of an image will affect its location on the internet and may make it unavailable or difficult to find. If you need to change the URL of an image, you should use a redirect or update the links to the new URL to ensure that it remains accessible.

How can I optimize the URL of an image for SEO?

To optimize the URL of an image for SEO, you should use descriptive and relevant keywords in the file name and folder structure of the image URL. This can help search engines understand the context and content of the image and improve its ranking in search results. Also, understanding color theory can enhance the visual appeal of your images, making them more engaging for users.

What is the difference between an absolute and relative image URL?

An absolute image URL includes the complete web address of the image, including the protocol (HTTP or HTTPS), domain name, and file path. A relative image URL includes only the file path, which is relative to the web page that is linking to the image. Relative URLs are typically shorter and easier to maintain but may be less reliable if the location of the image changes.

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April 5, 2023
How to block a URL in Chrome?
In today’s world, the internet has become an integral part of our daily lives. With just a few clicks, we can access a vast amount of information and connect with people from all over the world. However, there may be times when you want to block access to certain websites, either for productivity purposes or to protect yourself or others from harmful content.

In this regard, Chrome offers several ways to block specific URLs, whether it’s using extensions or built-in features. In this article, we’ll explore these methods in detail, so you can easily block any website that you want in Chrome. So, if you’re looking to increase your productivity or protect yourself from harmful content, read on to learn how to block a URL in Chrome.

How to block a URL in chrome using an extension?

Using extensions to block websites on Chrome is a simple and efficient method. It is suitable for Windows, Linux, and macOS users and often provides additional features that enhance the browsing experience.

Here’s how to block a URL in chrome using the BlockSite extension:

Step 1: Go to the Chrome web store and search for the BlockSite extension.

Step 2: Click the Add to Chrome button on the top right and wait for the extension to finish downloading.

Also read: How to create a vanity URL?

Step 3: After the download is finished, BlockSite will be automatically added to your list of Chrome extensions.

Step 4: Open the website you wish to block, click the BlockSite icon from chrome extensions, and then choose “Block this site”.

Also read: How to create a QR code for a URL?

Alternatively;

Step 5: You can also block a website URL by navigating to the BlockSite dashboard. Simply go to the Block Sites tab, and you’ll see a field where you can enter the URL of the websites you want to block.

Additional features of BlockSite include:

In addition, BlockSite offers several features for Google Chrome users. These include:
- Focus mode: It allows you to temporarily block websites by setting a timer. You can also set intervals between focus modes to browse without restrictions whenever you want to take a break.
- Block by words: This lets you block websites containing specific words or phrases in their domain name or URL.
- Categories: This allows you to block many sites of the same type, such as adult, social, news, sports, and gambling.
- Redirect: This lets you redirect any blocked websites to a different address based on your configuration.
- Scheduling: This allows you to block access to websites within a specific schedule you choose.
The free version of BlockSite allows you to add up to three websites to your block list. However, if you require unlimited blocks and access to more advanced features such as password protection and a custom block page, you may want to consider using its premium plan. The premium plan starts at $3.99/month.

Also read: How to Shorten a link using a URL shortener?

How to block a URL in chrome using the SafeSearch feature?

The SafeSearch feature in Chrome is primarily designed to filter out explicit content from your search results, but it can also be used to block websites.

Here’s how you can use SafeSearch to block websites on Chrome:

To enable this feature on your Google account on your computer, you need to access the preferences. Check the box next to “Turn on SafeSearch” and then scroll to the bottom of the webpage to click on the “Save” button.

Also read: How to create a call to action using a URL shortener?

FAQs

What is the best URL blocker?

The best website blocker depends on your specific needs and preferences, but some popular options include Cold Turkey, Freedom, and BlockSite.

Can I block myself from a website?

Yes, you can block yourself from a website using a website blocker or an internet filter. You can set up the blocker to prevent access to the website during specific times or block it altogether. This can be helpful if you have a habit of spending too much time on a particular website and need to limit your access to it.

How do I block a website in Chrome mobile?

Here are the steps to block a website on Chrome mobile:
1. Open the Google Play Store and download a website blocker app such as “BlockSite” or “Stay Focused.”
2. Once installed, open the app and tap on the “+” icon to add a new site to block.
3. Enter the URL of the website you want to block and tap “Add.”
4. You can also set a time limit for the block, or block the website permanently.
5. Once you’ve set up the block, the website will be inaccessible on your Chrome mobile browser.
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How to create a vanity URL?
Vanity URLs are a valuable tool for branding, marketing, and tracking efforts and can help to improve the overall user experience.

This quick guide will teach you how to create a vanity URL in just a few simple steps and explain what making a vanity URL entails.

Let’s begin!

Vanity URLs: how do you set them up?

Creating a vanity URL can make it easier to remember a web address and can also build brand consistency. To create a vanity URL, you can either use a link management tool or a content management system (CMS).
- A link management tool is a standalone platform that specializes in creating custom short links. You simply enter the long URL you want to shorten, and the tool generates a vanity URL.
- A CMS, on the other hand, is a platform used to manage the content of a website. Some CMSs’ have built-in redirect functionality, but others may require a redirect plugin to create a vanity URL. To use a CMS to create a vanity URL, you would set up a redirect from the custom short link to the longer, original URL.
In either case, a vanity URL can be easily shared and is a useful tool for branding and marketing.

Also read: What is a vanity URL & how to track it?

How to create a vanity URL using a link management tool?

Creating a vanity URL using a link management tool has several benefits, such as:
- A memorable URL can increase click-through rates and drive more traffic to a website.
- Vanity URLs can be tracked and measured, enabling businesses to gain a deeper understanding of their campaigns.
- A link management tool can allow for the creation of multiple vanity URLs, making it easier to manage multiple campaigns and track their performance.
Boost your marketing with Replug’s vanity URL builder

By using Replug’s vanity URL builder, businesses can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their marketing efforts, increase click-through rates, and drive more traffic to their website.

Here’s how you can create a vanity URL using Replug:

Step 1: Sign in to Replug or create an account for free.

Step 2: Once you’re on the main Replug dashboard, simply enter the long URL in the bar under “Quickly Shorten your link”:

Step 3: Click on the blue arrow button to autogenerate your vanity URL using Replug:

Step 4: Your vanity URL will be generated. You can customize the URL slug using the edit icon to fit your needs:

Step 5: Save and share your shortened, memorable link:

Also read: How to shorten a link using a URL shortener

How to make your vanity URL more clickable?

To make your vanity URL more clickable using Replug, follow these steps:

Choose a short and memorable vanity URL: The shorter the URL, the easier it will be for your audience to remember and click on it.

Use a relevant keyword: Use keywords relevant to the content behind the link so people know what they’re clicking on.

Use a recognizable brand name: If your brand has a recognizable name, use it in your vanity URL to build trust and make it more recognizable.

Create a custom domain: Replug allows you to create a custom domain for your short links, which can make your links look more professional and increase clicks.

Add a call-to-action (CTA): Adding a CTA to your vanity URL can encourage people to click on it. For example, “Click here to learn more” or “Get your discount now”.

Use UTM parameters: Utilize UTM parameters to track the performance of your links and make data-driven decisions about future link campaigns.

Test and iterate: Test your vanity URL and track its performance to see what’s working and what’s not. Make changes and improvements based on the data you collect.

Boost ROI with
branded URLs!
Enhance your marketing campaigns by creating shareable, trackable, and fully multi-purpose customizable branded URLs.
Try Replug for free

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How to find my Twitter URL on mobile and desktop?
As a Twitter user, having a URL for your profile is helpful for several reasons.

First, you can share your URL with friends and gain new followers by promoting it on other social media platforms, including email, business cards, company pamphlets, or restaurant menus. The more your URL is shared, the more likely you attract new followers.

Second, you can include your URL in the social media sections on other websites, allowing you to embed links to other profiles. This can help you grow your following as people search for more of your content on different platforms.

Additionally, having a distinct and solid brand identity across all your social media accounts will help you attract and retain followers.

Here’s how to find your Twitter URL:

How to find my Twitter URL on a mobile phone?

Follow these steps on your iOS or Android mobile device to find your Twitter URL:

Step 1: Open the Twitter app on your mobile device.

Step 2: Tap the profile icon in the top left corner.

Step 3: You will now see your user name in the sidebar below your name.

Step 4: Add your username after the Twitter link (www.twitter.com/@arslanjadun), and you’re done.

[branded_short_links]

How to find my Twitter URL on a computer device?

Here’s how to find your Twitter URL on a computer device.

Step 1: Log in to Twitter and click on your profile icon to open your profile.

Step 2: Copy the URL in the browser’s address bar, and you’re done.

Can I change my Twitter URL?

You can change your Twitter URL anytime by changing your @username, otherwise known as your handle.

Here’s how to change your Twitter URL on mobile and computer devices.

How to change my Twitter URL on a mobile device:

Step 1: Log in to the Twitter app and tap your profile icon in the top left corner.

Step 2: In the left side menu, Tap “setting and support,” then “setting and privacy.”

Step 3: Tap “your account” on the next screen.

Step 4: Now, tap “account information.”

Step 5: Tap “user name” to open your current user name.

Step 6: Type your new username and tap done.

Also Read: How to Shorten a link using a URL shortener?

How to change my Twitter URL On a computer device:

Follow the steps below to change your Twitter URL on a computer device:

Step 1: Log in to your Twitter profile and click on more in the left-side menu.

Step 2: Click “setting and support” from the left side menu. Then, click “setting and privacy” from the drop-down menu.

Step 3: Click “account information” from the “your account” menu.

Step 4: Click “username” in the account information section.

Step 5: Type your new username and click save.

Also Read: How to Quickly Increase Social Media Conversions in 2022

Looking for a Better Way to Manage Social Media URLs?

Managing multiple social media accounts is time-consuming, and keeping track of all the links to articles can be challenging. To streamline campaigns, it is recommended to use a tool such as Replug to keep all the links in one place.

However, deciding what links to include in the Replug can be confusing. For Twitter, the best link to start with is the URL of the entire profile, which can be easily shared and is always in the format of “twitter.com/username.”

The ultimate solution for managing all your social media links

Our link management tool provides you with a dashboard to manage all your shortened links, including the ability to track clicks and see analytics on the usage of each link. This can help you understand how your social media profiles are being used and accessed.

Replug provides several benefits when handling all your social media URLs:
- Create a consistent brand across all profiles
  A consistent brand across all your social media profiles is important for building a recognizable and professional image. Using the same URL shortener for all your profiles, such as Replug, ensures that your profiles are all linked together under one recognizable brand. This makes it easier for people to find and remember your profiles and creates a consistent image for your brand.
Also Read: Brand Consistency: Build Brand Consistency Using Branded Links

Track and analyze clicks on your links
Replug provides analytics and click tracking on your links, so you can see how many people are clicking on your social media profile links, where they are coming from, and which ones are most popular.

Also Read: What is a Tracking URL and How Does it Work?
- Provide easier-to-remember and share links
  Shortened Replug URLs are easier to remember and share than individual social media profiles’ long, complex URLs. You can enhance brand recognition and improve your profile’s accessibility by shortening your social media URLs with Replug.
- Provide Cross-platform compatibility
  Handling all your social media URLs through Replug provides cross-platform compatibility, making it easier for people to access your profiles from any device or browser. Replug links are designed to work seamlessly across all platforms, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets, ensuring that your profiles are accessible to everyone, regardless of their device.
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How to create a QR code for a URL?

Static URL QR codes are QR codes that can be scanned with your smartphone or another device to open a specific webpage once you scan them. There are several benefits to using this type of QR code.

One benefit is that it allows people to easily access a webpage without manually typing the full URL into a browser. This can save time and reduce the potential for errors. Additionally, most modern smartphones come equipped with a built-in QR code reader, making it easy for people to scan the code and access the webpage.

Another benefit is that it is free and easy to implement. Anyone can generate one by using a QR code generator and linking it to a specific URL. Plus, it is the standard way of using a QR code, so it is widely adopted and recognized worldwide.

URL shortener providers, such as Replug, can also track clicks and other analytics on the link, which can be useful for understanding how the QR code is used.

Let’s continue with how to create a QR code for a URL.

Also Read: A Complete Guide To Use QR Code Marketing

How to create a QR code for a URL using Replug?

Follow these simple steps to create a QR code for any URL in just a few minutes.

Step 1: Sign in to Replug or create a new account for free.

Step 2: Select the desired campaign on the main dashboard or create a new one.

Step 3: Paste the URL in the “URL to shorten” section below the “select your campaign” section and click create.

Step 4: You’ll first see a shortened version of your URL. Click the edit icon to customize your URL and click update.

[branded_short_links]

Follow the steps below to download your URL as a QR code:

Step 5: To access your newly created URL, go to the manage section on the main dashboard and click Replug links.

Step 6: Here you’ll see your newly created URL. click three dots at the end of the URL and then click download QR code.

Watch the Gif below to better understand the above steps:

FAQs

What is a URL QR code?

A URL QR code is a type of QR code that, when scanned by a QR code reader, directs the user to a specific webpage or website URL. The QR code contains a string of characters that represents the URL and can be easily scanned with a smartphone camera and QR code reader app. This allows users to quickly and easily access a webpage without having to manually type in a long and complicated URL.

Is there an expiration date for URL QR codes?

URL QR codes do not have an expiration date built into them, but the webpage or website that the QR code directs to may change or be taken down, which would render the QR code unusable. Also, if the website or the URL changes, the QR code will not work anymore.

Additionally, if the QR code is printed on a physical object, such as a poster or brochure, the QR code may become damaged or unreadable over time, making it unable to be scanned.

To avoid this, it’s possible to use a dynamic QR code, which allows you to change the destination URL without having to print a new QR code. This is useful for campaigns that may change or expire.

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