URL Shortener From SMS in Android

 How To Shorten & Read a URL  in Android From SMS

Deep linking allows you to direct users to a specific page within your Android app when they click on a link. However, long URLs with sensitive parameters can pose security risks and be inconvenient for SMS or sharing. In this article, we will explore how to make your deep links secure and short, ensuring a seamless and safe user experience.

Why Secure and Shorten Deep Links?

Security Risks of Long URLs

• URL Tampering: Users can manually modify parameters in the URL, leading to unauthorized access.

• Data Exposure: Sensitive information like id, uid, and offi may be visible in the URL.

• Phishing Risks: Long URLs can be manipulated to redirect users to malicious sites.

Benefits of Shortened URLs

• Easier to Share: Especially useful for SMS or social media.

• Better User Experience: Short URLs look cleaner and more professional.

• Tracking and Analytics: Some URL shorteners offer click-tracking features.

Methods to Secure and Shorten Deep Links

1. Using Firebase Dynamic Links (Recommended)

Firebase Dynamic Links (FDL) is a powerful solution provided by Google that allows you to create secure, short links that work across different platforms.

Steps to Implement Firebase Dynamic Links:

1. Enable Firebase Dynamic Links

   • Go to Firebase Console > Dynamic Links.

   • Set up a domain for your short links (e.g., xxx.page.link).

2. Create a Dynamic Link

   • Use Firebase's console or API to create a short link.

   • Example: Convert https://www.xxx.in/task?id=xx&srno=x&offi=x&userid=xinto https://xx.page.link/XyZ123.

3. Handle Deep Links in Android App

   • Add an intent filter for the deep link in AndroidManifest.xml.

   • Process the deep link in your app’s activity.

4. Deploy and Monitor

   • Use Firebase analytics to track clicks and conversions.

2. Encrypt URL Parameters

To prevent users from modifying or exposing sensitive data in URLs, encrypt the parameters before generating the deep link.

Steps to Encrypt Parameters:

1. Use AES Encryption in your backend to encrypt query parameters.

2. Send the Encrypted String instead of plain values.

3. Decrypt in Your App after receiving the deep link.

Example:

Instead of:

https://www.xxx.in/task?id=x&srno=x&offi=x&uid=x

Use:

https://xxx.page.link/XyZ123?data=ENCRYPTED_STRING

3. Use Custom URL Shorteners

If you want full control over link shortening, consider setting up a custom shortener like Bitly or a self-hosted solution using tools like YOURLS.

Steps to Implement:

1. Set Up a Shortener (e.g., short.rcfk.in).

2. Generate a Short URL pointing to the full deep link.

3. Redirect Users Securely to your app or web page.

4. Implement Android App Links

Android App Links allow your links to open directly in the app without needing a separate URL shortener.

Steps:

1. Verify the Link on Your Domain via Google Search Console.

2. Add Intent Filters in your AndroidManifest.xml.

3. Handle the Link in Your App Code.

Conclusion

By implementing Firebase Dynamic Links, encrypting parameters, and using custom URL shorteners, you can create secure and short deep links for your Android app. This not only enhances security but also improves user experience, ensuring seamless navigation within the app.

Would you like help setting up Firebase Dynamic Links or encryption in Android Java? Let us know in the comments!