How to Fix Common Link Issues: A Malware Prevention Guide

How to Fix Common Link Issues: A Malware Prevention Guide

By Michael Thompson

February 12, 2025 at 09:31 PM

Links are essential elements of any website, and common issues can affect their functionality. Here's how to identify and fix the most frequent link problems on your website.

Common Link Issues and Solutions

When a Link Leads to Login Screen This occurs when the URL contains "/config#/" - a backend editing URL. These links won't work for visitors and need to be replaced with public-facing URLs.

When a Link Shows Logged-in Version This happens when you're logged into your account while testing links. Always test links in an incognito/private browser window to see what visitors will experience.

404 Errors or "Page Not Found" These occur when:

  • URLs have changed
  • URLs contain typos
  • Pages have been deleted To fix:
  1. Check all URLs for accuracy
  2. Update outdated links manually
  3. Set up URL redirects if needed

Wrong Domain Display If links show your integrated domain (example.squarespace.com) instead of your custom domain:

  1. Reset the link by re-selecting the page in the link editor
  2. Ensure your preferred domain is set as primary

Fixing Different Types of Links

Web Address Links (External)

  1. Copy the destination URL from your browser
  2. Test in incognito mode
  3. Update the link in your editor
  4. Test again in incognito mode

Website Content Links (Internal)

  1. Open the link editor
  2. Search for the specific page/product
  3. Select the correct item from search results
  4. Test the link in incognito mode

Category/Tag Links

  • Ensure exact case matching (e.g., "Recipe" vs "recipe")
  • Use built-in category/tag linking tools when possible
  • Verify proper URL structure

Anchor Links For page-jump functionality:

  1. Ensure proper anchor tag setup
  2. Verify correct anchor names
  3. Test navigation on live site

Best Practices

  • Always test links in incognito mode
  • Regularly audit links for broken URLs
  • Use built-in linking tools when available
  • Keep URL structures consistent
  • Set up redirects for major URL changes

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