I was sent a link in WhatsApp, how do I open it - briefly?
If you were sent a link on WhatsApp and need to open it, simply tap on the link within the chat. This will automatically open the content in your default web browser.
I was sent a link in WhatsApp, how do I open it - in detail?
When you receive a link via WhatsApp, opening it is straightforward and secure as long as you follow the correct steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to proceed:
- Identify the Source: Before opening any link, ensure that it comes from a trusted contact. Unsolicited links from unknown numbers should be approached with caution.
- Verify the Link: Check if the URL matches the context of your conversation or the expected content. Fraudulent links often contain misspellings or unusual characters. If in doubt, ask the sender to confirm the link’s authenticity.
- Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your device. This step ensures that you are using a secure environment managed by WhatsApp.
- Locate the Message: Find the message containing the link within your chat history. Tap on the message to expand it and view the entire content.
- Tap the Link: Gently tap on the link embedded in the message. This action will prompt WhatsApp to process the link.
- Review the Preview: WhatsApp provides a preview of the webpage linked within the app itself. Review this preview for any suspicious content or unexpected results.
- Open in Browser (Optional): If you prefer opening the link in your default browser, tap on the option that says "Open in Browser" or similar wording. This will redirect you to the webpage using your device’s internet browser.
- Verify Secure Connection: Ensure the website you are directed to uses HTTPS (indicated by a padlock icon in the address bar). This signifies that the connection is secure and encrypted.
- Proceed with Caution: Be mindful of the information you enter or download from the site. Avoid entering personal details unless you are certain about the website’s legitimacy.
- Report Suspicious Links: If you suspect a link is malicious, do not open it and report it to WhatsApp by using the "Report" feature within the app. This helps in maintaining the safety of the platform for all users.
By following these steps, you can safely open links received through WhatsApp while minimizing potential risks associated with phishing or malware attacks.