WDH-080 Websites, Domains & Internet Infrastructure
What should I preserve from redirects and shortened links?¶
Preserve the original link, every intermediate URL, the final destination and the conditions under which the chain was followed.
Evidence to consider¶
- original message or source;
- exact shortened URL;
- date, time and time zone;
- device, browser and login state;
- intermediate URLs;
- final destination;
- tracking identifiers, warnings and errors.
Interpret the result carefully¶
Technical records may identify a service, account, device or request rather than the person responsible. Preserve exact dates, times and time zones, and test shared access, automation, compromise and changing infrastructure where relevant.
Key takeaway
Treat the shortening or redirect service as a potential evidence holder and avoid repeated uncontrolled clicking.