OpenTools
Utilities

Link Hider

Mask any link behind a tidy opentools.ca/link address so it never spoils the surprise. Reveal one you were sent, and track views on the ones you save.

Only http and https links can be hidden. We add https:// if you leave it off.

About this tool

The Link Hider turns any URL into a neutral opentools.ca/link short link that gives nothing away. It is made for sharing a surprise between friends, where the plain web address would spoil the reveal on sight. Paste a link, hide it, and share the masked version instead. On the receiving end, the built-in revealer lets you check exactly where a masked link points before you open it, so you never have to trust a link blind. Sign in and every link you make is saved to your account with a running view count, so you can see how many times it has been opened, turn a link off, or delete it whenever you like. Only http and https links can be hidden, and any masked link can be reported if it looks off.

How to use the Link Hider

  1. On the Hide a link tab, paste the address you want to mask into Link to hide.
  2. Click Hide it to create your opentools.ca/link address.
  3. Click Copy link and share the masked link instead of the original.
  4. To check a link you were sent, open the Reveal a link tab, paste it in and click Reveal.

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Frequently asked questions

How does a masked link work?

A masked link is a short address that points somewhere else. When someone opens your opentools.ca/link address, our server looks up the destination and sends their browser straight there with a standard redirect, so the real URL stays out of sight until the page loads.

Can I see how many times my link was opened?

Yes, if you sign in before hiding the link. Saved links appear under Your links with a running view count, and you can turn a link off or delete it at any time. Links made while signed out are not tied to an account and cannot be managed later.

Is a masked link private?

No. Masking only hides the destination at a glance: we store it on our server so the redirect works, and anyone with the masked link can see where it goes using the Reveal a link tab. Do not use it to share anything sensitive.

How do I check a masked link before opening it?

Open the Reveal a link tab and paste the full opentools.ca/link address or just its code. You will see the real destination without visiting it, revealing does not add a view, and you can report the link if it looks suspicious.

What kinds of links can I hide?

Any http or https web address, and if you leave off the start, https:// is added for you. Other link types, such as mailto links, cannot be hidden, and you cannot mask a link that is already an OpenTools masked link.

Link Hider screenshot

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