Annoying URL Addition in Copied Text: A Scientist's Perspective

  • Thread starter A.T.
  • Start date
In summary, an "annoying URL in copied text" is when a URL is automatically copied along with the selected text, causing frustration for users who only wanted to copy the text. This happens due to a feature called "linkification" where URLs are converted into clickable links. To prevent this, users can manually select and copy the text without the URL or disable the linkification feature. While not usually a security concern, it can potentially be risky if the URL leads to a malicious website. This issue can be fixed by website or application developers by implementing a feature to disable linkification or giving users the option to copy text without the URL. Users can also provide feedback to developers to address this issue.
  • #1
A.T.
Science Advisor
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When you use Ctrl-C to copy text from a post, the forum software adds a back reference to the copied text: "Reference [URL to post]"

This happens even if you copy a single word, for example to use it as a search term. So after pasting it you have to manually clean up the search box, which is obviously very annoying. I can see some sense in this for a large amount of text that is being copied and re-posted somewhere else. But it should not happen for a few words.
 
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  • #2
Login and it won't happen :smile:
 

Related to Annoying URL Addition in Copied Text: A Scientist's Perspective

1. What is an "annoying URL in copied text"?

An "annoying URL in copied text" refers to a situation where a URL (uniform resource locator) is automatically copied along with the rest of the selected text when using the copy and paste function on a computer or mobile device. This can be frustrating for users who only intended to copy the text and not the URL.

2. Why does this happen?

This happens because some websites or applications have implemented a feature called "linkification," which automatically converts any URLs in the text into clickable links. When using the copy and paste function, the entire text including the link is selected and copied.

3. How do I prevent this from happening?

To prevent this from happening, you can manually select and copy the text without including the URL. Alternatively, you can disable the linkification feature in the website or application settings. Some browsers also offer extensions or add-ons that allow you to disable linkification.

4. Is this a security concern?

In most cases, this is not a security concern. However, if the URL leads to a malicious website, it can potentially be a security risk. It is always important to be cautious when clicking on links, especially if you are not familiar with the source.

5. Can this be fixed?

Yes, this issue can be fixed by the website or application developers. They can implement a feature that allows users to copy the text without including the URL, or give users the option to disable linkification. Users can also submit feedback or suggestions to the developers to address this issue.

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