A link via WhatsApp, a quick download and… it’s time to eliminate viruses from our Android mobile. The links we receive are a nest of problems, from scams – on WhatsApp, they have multiplied in recent times – to APK files that can infect our device.
In the case of installable applications, I opt for this site which analyzes them. However, when we receive links to a supposed package we need to collect or an irresistible offer, there is nothing better than URLCheck to make sure it is secure.
URLCheck prevents you from opening the browser prematurely
While browsing the open source application repository par excellence, which is F-Droid, we came across an application that acts as a barrier between user and links. It’s called URLCheck, it weighs barely a few megabytes but it performs a function that could be perfectly integrated into Android.
Analyzing the links that enter our phone is essential, whether they come from messaging applications, social networks or simply those that we have found on the Internet. Why is it so important? A danger hides behind all this, and it can take the form of virus or staffbeing harmful to our sensitive information.
What can we do to fix it? Considering that in addition to being tempting, this could be a good link, I choose to ask the sender. However, there are cases where it has also been infected and the link is distributed automatically generating an error message. chain of infections of unforeseen consequences.
This is where URLCheck comes in: It is located in the middle of the application where we receive the link and our browser (with which we will open it). So we will see its simple and minimalist interface when our finger opens one of these links. From now on, the possibilities of this free application are multiple:
- Allows you to know the host from the URL, i.e. what is the website where it is hosted. This is an excellent clue to know if this link from the Post Office or the Administration is true.
- In case it is a shortened linkURLCheck will provide us with the real one. Shortening links is useful but it is also used by malicious users to camouflage the danger.
- Link history: Do you open a lot of them throughout the day? In a simple tab, you can see all the ones you have viewed.
- Convert to HTTPS: The difference between HTTP and HTTPS is that the latter is a little more reliable. With a simple tap we will use the secure protocol, establishing a slightly more private connection with the link.
As if that were not enough, the application adapts to the theme that we have activated on our Android mobile, whether dark or light, although for it to conform correctly, the company must grant it permissions We just installed it.
In addition, it is not insistent: with a button we will access our browser, so It’s not intrusive nor does it slow down the usual flow of use. Just in case, it includes in its modules some functions that automate the cleaning of links. Because yes, it is also able to eliminate some trackers as well as links with referrals.
We almost forgot. One of these modules, has become essential, and it checks the links with VirusTotal. To do this, we need to obtain an API key from the service and integrate it into the application. From now on our Android mobile will be more protected and at the same time that it acts as a barrier against viruses, it will also reveal those links with scams that we should not fall into.
Of course, using URLCheck does not mean getting rid of the antivirus. On the contrary, together they do the perfect synergy. And no less important: never lose the attitude of doubt about what we receive on our mobile, we must continue to check what we download and the websites we access. This is the best weapon to prevent possible problems.
You can download this application from the Google Play Store, or if you prefer from F-Droid. There is no advertising or payment in the app: It’s 100% free and secure. In fact, it is Open Source so with the necessary knowledge you can see its source code.
Cover image | Microsoft Designer with Edition
In Xataka Android | I’m obsessed with security and this app can’t be missing on my Android
