Top 4 LinkedIn Scams and How to Recognize Them

The Growing Threat of LinkedIn Scams

After a layoff, one of the first steps many people take is updating their LinkedIn profile. While it’s a smart move to showcase your skills and signal that you’re open to new opportunities, it’s also a time when scammers may target you. With over 1 billion users worldwide, LinkedIn has become a prime hunting ground for cybercriminals. Understanding the most common types of LinkedIn scams can help you stay safe and avoid falling victim.

The Problem with Fake Job Postings

LinkedIn scams are on the rise, partly because the platform continues to grow rapidly. According to Monica Eaton, CEO of Chargebacks911, “With over 1 billion users worldwide, LinkedIn is a huge, fertile breeding ground for cyberthieves.” While LinkedIn claims to block the majority of fake accounts—94.6% automatically blocked in the first half of 2024—scammers still find ways to reach users through private messages and other tactics.

Despite these efforts, the real danger often comes from individuals who approach users directly with job offers that turn out to be scams. These scammers prey on those who are vulnerable, such as job seekers looking for work. As Chris Hauk, consumer privacy champion at Pixel Privacy, explains, “LinkedIn scammers are attracted to that network due to the participants’ positions and perceived higher income and financial status.”

Common Types of LinkedIn Scams

There are several common types of LinkedIn scams that users should be aware of:

1. Fake Job Offers

One of the most prevalent scams involves fake job offers. Scammers may promise high salaries or lucrative opportunities but require an upfront fee to secure the position. “A fake recruiter may claim that you need to respond right away or this incredible job will go to someone else,” says Eaton. This pressure tactic plays on the fear of missing out (FOMO), making people more likely to fall for the scam.

How to Avoid: Legitimate companies won’t use urgency to push you into making a decision. Be cautious if a job offer seems too good to be true or requires payment upfront.

2. Fake Tech Support

Scammers may pose as IT support staff from your company and request access to sensitive information or passwords. “People usually don’t cross-check the person before disclosing sensitive details to these scammers,” says Vandan Pathak, Lead Offensive Security Engineer at Kyndryl.

How to Avoid: Always verify the identity of anyone claiming to be from your company’s IT department. Companies typically communicate through official channels, not LinkedIn.

3. Phishing Scams

Phishing scams involve sending links that appear to come from legitimate sources but lead to malicious websites. These links can steal personal information or install malware on your device. “In 2023, more than 1 out of every 3 data breaches in the U.S. were the result of phishing attacks,” says Eaton.

How to Avoid: Never click on links from strangers. If in doubt, type the URL directly into your browser instead of clicking on any links.

4. Romance Scams

Romance scams are not limited to dating apps. Scammers may reach out on LinkedIn, offering friendship or support after a job loss. They may then use love bombing tactics—excessive praise or constant contact—to gain trust before asking for money.

How to Avoid: Stay level-headed and verify the person’s social media profiles. Look for signs of AI-generated content or suspiciously low follower counts.

Signs of a LinkedIn Scam

Several red flags can indicate a potential scam:

• A false sense of urgency
• A brand new account (less than a month old)
• Misspellings, grammar errors, or slang
• A fake profile photo
• Contrived connections
• Vague and similar endorsements
• A common last name
• Awkward initial contact
• Requests for money or financial information

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to walk away and report the account to LinkedIn.

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you suspect you’ve been scammed, act quickly. Change your LinkedIn password and enable multifactor authentication. Scan your devices for malware and update all your passwords. If you sent money, notify your bank immediately. You can also report the scam to LinkedIn and file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from LinkedIn scams and continue using the platform safely.