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.