Common questions

Is my URL stored or shared?

Free scans contribute URL data to Linkspector's Australian threat intelligence database - this is what powers detection of emerging phishing threats targeting Australian users. Pro scans additionally resolve shortened links to their final destination, then submit to VirusTotal and Google Safe Browsing for real-time checks. Your data is never sold or shared for commercial purposes.

What does Linkspector do with my scan data?

Every scan you run contributes to Australian threat intelligence. Linkspector tracks phishing patterns, suspicious domains, and emerging threats targeting Australian brands like myGov, Australia Post, CommBank, and the ATO. The more Australians scan, the more accurate and current that intelligence becomes. No data is ever sold or used for advertising.

What is the difference between free and Pro?

Free scans run 30+ checks on URL structure, domain age, encoding patterns, and known attack signatures. No account needed, instant results. Pro adds automatic shortened link resolution (bit.ly, t.co and 20+ others), real-time lookups via VirusTotal (90+ antivirus engines) and Google Safe Browsing, plus AI-powered plain-English analysis of every result.

How many free scans do I get?

You get 3 free deep scans. Local heuristic scans (the initial check that runs the moment you paste a URL) are always unlimited and always free.

Who is this for?

Anyone who receives a link they did not ask for. Individuals checking suspicious texts or emails, IT staff triaging reported links, and security teams tracking active campaigns all use Linkspector. If you are evaluating it for an organisation, the Pro plan covers your whole team.

Why does Linkspector check Australian brands specifically?

Yes. Linkspector includes Australian brand intelligence built to detect impersonation of myGov, Australia Post, CommBank, the ATO, and other high-value Australian targets. This intelligence is continuously updated by scan data contributed by Australian users - making Linkspector more effective the more it is used.

What does a BLOCK result mean?

BLOCK means one or more high-confidence signals were detected. This does not mean the link is definitely malicious, but the risk is high enough that you should not visit it without further verification. A WARN result means suspicious signals were found that warrant caution. PASS means no threat signals were detected.

Does Linkspector follow redirects?

The local heuristic engine checks the URL as submitted, including structure and domain. The Pro deep scan automatically resolves shortened links (bit.ly, t.co, etc.) to their final destination before scanning, so you always get results for the actual site — not just the shortener.

Can I use Linkspector via API?

Not yet. An API is planned for team and enterprise use cases. If you have a specific integration need, reach out via the feedback link below.

How do I upgrade to Pro?

Paste any URL and run a deep scan. Once your free scans are used, you will be prompted to upgrade. Payment is processed securely via Stripe. Your Pro access is active immediately after checkout.