See Full Website Addresses: How to Display Full URLs in Chrome

Are you tired of Chrome hiding the full website address in the address bar? Seeing the full URL is crucial for online security and helps you avoid scams. This article gives you a simple step-by-step guide to display full URLs in Chrome and protect yourself from malicious websites.

Why Show Full URLs in Google Chrome?

Hiding the full URL might make your browser look cleaner, but it comes at a cost. Knowing a website's full address is vital for online safety. Here's why:

• Security: Full URLs show the protocol (HTTPS vs. HTTP). HTTP sites aren't secure and put you at risk. Seeing https:// ensures a safer connection.
• Fraud Prevention: Malicious actors often use deceptive URLs. Full URLs let you spot subtle differences in domain names, helping you avoid phishing scams. Use this tool to see full web addresses.
• Peace of Mind: For power users, seeing the complete address gives you more control and transparency over where you're browsing.

Step-by-Step: Always Show Full URLs in Google Chrome

Google Chrome has a hidden setting that lets you always show full URLs in the address bar. Here's how to enable it:

1. Open Google Chrome: Launch your Chrome browser.
2. Access Chrome Flags: Type chrome://flags/#omnibox-context-menu-show-full-urls into the address bar and press Enter. This opens Chrome's experimental features page.
3. Enable the Flag: Find the "Context menu show full URLs" option. Click the dropdown menu to the right and select "Enabled."
4. Relaunch Chrome: A message will appear saying, "Your changes will take effect the next time you relaunch Google Chrome." Click the "Relaunch" button or manually close and reopen Chrome.
5. Right-Click and Select: After Chrome restarts, right-click anywhere in the address bar.
6. Choose "Always Show Full URLs": Select the "Always show full URLs" option from the context menu.

You should immediately see the full URL in the address bar!

Bonus Tip: An Alternative Method to Display Full URLs in Chrome

You can also right-click on any URL to copy the full link. This can be useful if you wish to share a link with your friends, for example.

How to Disable Full URLs in Google Chrome

Changed your mind and want to go back to the shortened URL view? Here's how to disable full URLs:

1. Open Google Chrome: Launch your Chrome browser.
2. Right-Click in the Address Bar: Right-click anywhere in the address bar.
3. Deselect "Always Show Full URLs": Click "Always show full URLs" to remove the checkmark. The address bar will immediately switch back to the shortened view.

Final Thoughts

Showing the full URL in Chrome is a simple change that significantly boosts your online security. Take control of your browsing experience and protect yourself from scams!