External links

When you click on an external link in an email, you're being routed through an intermediate dereferrer page for safety reasons.

Why am I being routed through a dereferrer website first?

Google and other services are using a blacklist to detect malicious websites. If your target website is "clean", you will merely be informed that you're about to leave mail.com.

If the target website is suspicious, you will be redirected to a warning page instead.

What's a malicious website?

Malicious websites usually attempt to steal sensitive data by posing for a well-known company (e.g. your bank), or try to trick you into downloading harmful software like viruses or spyware.

Possible warnings

Default warnings by Google are:
  • Social Engineering "Warning—Deceptive site ahead."

    This website is attempting to trick you into giving away sensitive data like credit card, social security number, or online credentials. See Social Engineering (Phishing and Deceptive Sites).

  • Malware: "Warning — Visiting this website may harm your computer."

    The website is suspected to contain malicious software like viruses, browser security exploits, or a combination thereof.

  • Harmful programs: "Warning—The site ahead may contain harmful programs."

    The website will try to make you install software that slows down your computer and changes the browser's look & feel. See Unwanted Software Policy.

  • Phishing software: "Warning—The site ahead may contain malware."

    The website might attempt to trick you into downloading malicious smartphone apps that spy on sensitive data.

Can I visit a website despite the warning?

Yes. Copy the address into your browser's address bar and hit return. Obviously, do this only if you know what you're doing.

Was this article helpful?