LinkedIn, a widely used platform owned by Microsoft, is an excellent tool for networking and career growth. However, a recent report from Check Point Research has revealed that LinkedIn is impersonated in nearly half of all phishing attacks globally. At 10D Tech, we want to help you understand these threats and stay safe online.
Common LinkedIn Phishing Scams
Scammers often target individuals looking for new job opportunities. Phishing emails might look like they come from LinkedIn with subjects like “You have 1 new invitation” or “Your profile has been viewed by 63 people.” While these emails can be genuine, verifying the sender’s email address is crucial. Scammers often send emails that look identical to real ones, with links to fake LinkedIn pages designed to steal your information.
Another tactic is creating fake profiles and messaging users about job opportunities. Once hooked, victims might be asked for a small payment to process an application or directed to fill out a form that is actually a phishing link in disguise.
LinkedIn’s Security Features
LinkedIn is aware of these issues and has implemented several security features to protect its users:
- Suspicious Message Warnings: LinkedIn’s technology can detect messages that attempt to take you off the platform or contain inappropriate content and send you a warning notification.
- Profile Verification: This feature allows you to verify your profile’s authenticity by submitting an additional form of ID. Verified profiles receive a badge, indicating to others that you are genuine.
- Profile Information: You can view a person’s profile details to help determine whether to respond to a message, accept a connection request, or trust an offer. Under your profile, click “More” and select “About this profile” to see information like:
- When the profile was created
- When the profile was last updated
- Whether the member has verified a phone number
- Whether the member has a work email associated with their account
- AI-Generated Profile Picture Detection: LinkedIn has partnered with Academia to develop advanced detection features that identify and shut down profiles using AI-generated pictures of fake people.
Stay Secure with 10D Tech
LinkedIn is a fantastic resource for finding jobs, employees, or clients, but it’s important to stay secure. While LinkedIn’s features offer excellent initial protection, your internal security solutions must be robust to defend against any threats that slip through.
At 10D Tech, we specialize in IT services and cybersecurity solutions. We offer a FREE Security Risk Assessment to help you determine if your network is vulnerable to attack. To book your assessment, call us at (541) 243-4103 or in Portland at (971) 915-9103, or click here to book now.
Stay safe and secure with 10D Tech, your trusted IT services and cybersecurity experts.
