So called url shortening services such as tinyurl or bit.ly turn a lengthy url into a smaller one that redirects to the original destination. This is handy in several situations but especially when text is either limited (like on Twitter) or difficulty to enter.
The main problem of these services is that the user cannot identify the destination of the url just by looking at its shortened version. This is for instance exploited by users with malicious intents to lure Internet users on websites that they would not otherwise visit.
Untiny is a service that can display the final destination of dozens of url shortening services. This is in particular interesting since the developers have produced a variety of tools to use their service. Tools offered range from a web form on their website over browser plugins to userscripts and bookmarklets.
The tool collection is listed on the extra page of the Unity website. Each tool is linked from that page.
Untiny is for instance available as a Firefox add-on, Google Chrome extension, Opera widget, bookmarklet or Greasemonkey userscript.
The userscript will for instance convert all urls from supported url shortening services into the link destination so that the real destination is shown on the website. Works perfectly fine on Twitter to increase the security on the Internet.
The wide range of tools for all popular browsers and other programs makes Untiny one of the best solutions to reveal shortened url destinations.
Update: The add-on has been discontinued. A solid alternative is the Firefox add-on Long URL please.
Enjoyed the article?: Then sign-up for our free newsletter or RSS feed to kick off your day with the latest technology news and tips, or share the article with your friends and contacts on Facebook or Twitter.Related Articles:
Firefox 4, Display Link Destinations In The Add-On BarURL X-Ray, Reveal URL Shortener Link Destinations
Url Revealer
McAfee URL Shortener
Google Chrome Extension Reveals Website User Agent Detection
Yo, Martin Unity is not the same as Untiny (Read the title.) I downloaded it.
Thanks corrected
Your Welcome (not to be a snob or anything like that.)