What’s the difference between malicious and deceptive links?

Malicious links lead directly to harmful content: malware downloads, exploit kits, or malicious scripts. The destination itself causes harm. URL reputation and content scanning can detect these.

Deceptive links lead to content that appears legitimate but enables fraud: fake login pages, misleading information, or social engineering landing pages. The destination isn't technically malicious but serves fraudulent purposes.

Detection differs. Malicious links have technical indicators (known malware, exploits). Deceptive links require understanding intent and context. Filters catch malicious links more reliably; deceptive links often require user judgment.