> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://oten.gitbook.io/trust-support/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://oten.gitbook.io/trust-support/get-started/tips-for-safer-browsing.md).

# Tips for Safer Browsing

### 1. Verify before you click

Before visiting any unfamiliar link — especially from **emails, social media messages, or ads** — paste it into **Oten Trust** first.\
The system instantly checks if the site shows signs of phishing, fake branding, or malware.

**Example:**\
If you receive a link like `https://paypal-support-secure.com`, a quick Oten Trust check will reveal it’s not a legitimate PayPal domain.

> 💡 Tip: Shortened links (e.g., bit.ly, tinyurl) can hide real destinations. Oten Trust automatically expands and evaluates them for you.

### 2. Inspect the domain name

Attackers often register lookalike domains to trick users — this is known as **typosquatting**.

**What to check:**

* Extra characters (`paypall.com`)
* Replaced letters (`faceb00k.com` instead of `facebook.com`)
* Added subdomains (`login.paypal.com.secure-update.net`)

Always focus on the **main domain** (the part right before `.com`, `.net`, or `.org`).

> 🧠 Example:\
> In `https://secure.apple.com.verify-login.co`, the real domain is `verify-login.co`, not `apple.com`.

### 3. Don’t rely on HTTPS alone

While HTTPS (the padlock symbol) encrypts communication, it doesn’t guarantee a site’s legitimacy.\
Fraudulent sites can also have valid SSL certificates.

**What you can do:**

* Always look at the **full domain name**, not just the padlock.
* Combine HTTPS presence with **Oten Trust's** reputation and configuration results (SPF, DKIM, DMARC).

> 🔎 Example:\
> `https://mybank-login-update.com` might look secure but could be flagged as *Suspicious* due to DNS mismatches and new domain registration.

### 4. Be cautious with shortened or redirected links

Shortened URLs from services like `bit.ly` or `t.co` often mask real destinations.\
Oten Trust automatically detects **redirect chains** and analyzes where the final page leads.

**Best practices:**

* Expand and preview shortened URLs before clicking.
* Avoid links that pass through multiple redirects — they may conceal phishing destinations.

> ⚠️ Example:\
> A link like `bit.ly/securepayment` might redirect through several servers before landing on a fake payment site.

### 5. Keep your browser updated

Updates often include **security patches** that prevent malicious scripts or drive-by downloads.

**Do this regularly:**

* Enable automatic browser updates.
* Keep extensions minimal and from trusted publishers.
* Use built-in protection features (like Chrome’s Safe Browsing or Microsoft Defender SmartScreen).

### 6. Educate your team or family

Cybersecurity awareness is a shared responsibility.\
Encourage others to check URLs before entering credentials, even if the site looks professional.

**Ideas to share:**

* Demonstrate a quick Oten Trust check.
* Explain how phishing emails use urgency or fear to manipulate users.
* Review real examples of scam messages during team or family meetings.

> 💬 “If it feels urgent or too good to be true — verify before you click.”

### 7. Use Oten Trust regularly

Make Oten Trust part of your daily browsing routine.\
It’s designed to protect not only individuals but also organizations that handle sensitive data.

**Use cases:**

* Security teams verifying new domains before adding them to allowlists.
* Marketers checking outbound links in campaigns.
* Students and professionals researching unknown sources safely.

> 🔒 The more often you verify, the less likely you’ll fall for emerging threats.

{% hint style="info" %}
You can also add images simply by copying and pasting them directly into the editor — and GitBook will automatically add it to your file manager.
{% endhint %}