YouTube Shorts Disabling Clickable Links to Combat Scams

YouTube is taking action against scams in the comments section, descriptions and feeds of YouTube Shorts videos by removing clickable links and implementing a new system, as misleading links have become a major problem on the platform. New systems make it harder to spread malicious links.

YouTube notes that an effort to prevent the spread of malware, phishing, or scam-related content in links in YouTube Shorts comments and Shorts descriptions will make the links “unclickable starting August 31, 2023.” This change is rolling out gradually, so it’s possible that not everyone will see the change at once.

YouTube said that since the introduction of Shorts, the frequency and volume of content has increased, but “this speed and level of engagement has made it easier for spammers and scammers to share Shorts comments and Shorts footage that harms the community.”

The company also plans to remove “clickable social media icons” from all desktop channel banners starting August 10, 2023, as they may lead users to misleading links.

What alternative does YouTube Shorts bring?

YouTube will introduce new “safer ways” by the end of September to allow audiences to access creators’ other YouTube content. This is because sharing links and recommending products is important to content creators.

Additionally, as early as Aug. 23, “viewers on mobile and desktop will begin seeing prominent clickable links on creators’ channel profiles next to the Subscribe button,” YouTube said. However, links shared by users must comply with YouTube’s guidelines.

In June, YouTube also introduced another much-requested update, requiring users who want to create fan channels or already maintain one to make sure they make it clear by choosing a channel name or handle that suggests their channel does not represent the original creator, artist or whole. These changes will take effect on August 21st later this month.