Which statement is true of compressed URLs (e.g., Tiny URL, goo.gl)?

Compressed URLs, such as those created by services like TinyURL or goo.gl, are designed to take a longer web address and condense it into a shorter, more manageable format. One of their characteristics is that they can obscure the true destination of the link. This means that users cannot easily determine where the link will take them just by looking at the shortened version, which can be exploited by malicious actors.

By masking the true intent of a hyperlink, compressed URLs can lead unsuspecting users to phishing sites, malware downloads, or other harmful content. Therefore, the statement regarding their potential use to hide malicious intent highlights a significant security concern in using these types of links. It emphasizes the importance of caution when clicking on shortened URLs, as they could redirect users to dangerous sites without their knowledge.