Author-ized L.J.Feb 12
#Mastodon / #feditip: Please don't use URL shorteners, they don't help with saving on character count because web addresses are counted as 23 characters. Many users won't boost or click on shortened URLs because links whose destinations you can't check are considered security risks, and are hostile to screen readers. Transparent and informative URLs are right there in the address bar for your use, there's no need to go through an opaque and potentially insecure shortening service.
Show threadAuthor-ized L.J.Feb 12
I had thought the age of shortened URLs long over, but I guess it's still sometimes a thing?   This post was prompted by seeing a shortened URL in a tag, and it wasn't that long ago that I told a friend that URL shortening would limit the reach of their posts.
Show threadAuthor-ized L.J.Feb 13
I was reminded by a response that URL shortening can have applications for QR codes, which seems to combine the issues of both shorteners and QR codes--security, accessibility and so on. It's really context-dependent, but I would never scan a random QR code from someone who isn't a trusted party and the same goes for shortened URLs.
Show threadJess MahlerFeb 13
@ljwrites
I hate how ubiquitous QR codes have become. Like... I've seen so many flyers and things with QR codes and NO url or phone number, so the only way to follow up was with the QR.
Show threadAuthor-ized L.J.Feb 13
@JessMahler Yeah that's just a bad practice and makes me leery as hell. I use QR codes at bank websites and so on because I have to, but if it's really just another link I'd much prefer to enter legible and reasonably concise links.
Show threadAnalog AIFeb 13
@JessMahler @ljwrites and if I use a QR code, I want to see such a link before I visit the site
Show threadAuthor-ized L.J.
@Retreival9096 @JessMahler 💯 As far as I can tell iPhones preview URLs for confirmation and previews are available in settings for QR scanner apps, but using a shortened link for QRs will break such measures.
Feb 13 at 1:33amWeb
Show threadAnalog AIFeb 13
@JessMahler @ljwrites same for android, at least in apps I use