LinkedIn impersonation scams

What this scam usually looks like

A message claims your LinkedIn account will be disabled, has a copyright or login problem, or asks you to help a 'friend' by sharing a code, leading to account takeover.

What the real LinkedIn will never ask for

Your password or verification code by message
You to appeal via a login link
Payment to keep or verify your account

Common fake message patterns

Sanitised examples - placeholders only, never real links or data.

Example only: LinkedIn: a recruiter wants to hire you - continue on WhatsApp: [fake-link removed]

Common red flags

Threats that your account will be deleted or suspended
A link to 'appeal' or 'verify' that is not inside the app
A friend suddenly asking for a code sent to your phone
Requests for your password or one-time login code
Urgency that discourages you from checking

How to verify safely

Open LinkedIn directly and check official notifications.
Never share a login code, even with someone who seems to be a friend.
Reset your password from inside the app if unsure.
Report and block the sender within LinkedIn.

What not to do

Do not click links in unexpected LinkedIn messages.
Do not share passwords, OTPs, or card details prompted by a LinkedIn message.
Do not call phone numbers contained in the message.

If you already clicked or paid

If you entered details on a fake LinkedIn page or paid, act fast: change your password from a trusted device, enable two-factor authentication, and contact LinkedIn and (if money or card details were involved) your bank through official channels.

See the step-by-step recovery guides and your country's reporting options.

Got a message like this?

Paste it into the checker to see the specific red flags and what to do next.

Check a message

Account takeoverWhen a scammer gains control of one of your accounts, often using a stolen password plus a tricked one-time code.PhishingPhishing is when a scammer pretends to be a trusted person or organisation to trick you into revealing passwords, codes, or financial details, or into clicking a malicious link.WhatsApp verification code scamA scammer tries to take over your WhatsApp by getting you to share the 6-digit verification code.

Official LinkedIn security & reporting

LinkedIn Help - recognise scams Needs manual review

LinkedIn safety and scam-reporting guidance.

Source type: corporate · Last checked 2026-06-05
https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin

Related scam-type hubs

Social media account takeover scams

Report in your country

Related red flags

Sources

Official LinkedIn security pagesInformational

External sites open in a new tab and are not controlled by this website. We link to them for reference and do not endorse or guarantee their content. Always confirm you are on the official domain before acting.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a LinkedIn message is real?

Do not judge by how official it looks. Open the genuine LinkedIn app or type the official website yourself and check there. Never use links or phone numbers from the message.

Is this website affiliated with LinkedIn?

No. This page is educational only and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by LinkedIn. The LinkedIn name is used only to explain common impersonation scams.

What should I do if I already entered details on a fake LinkedIn page?

Change your password from a trusted device, turn on two-factor authentication, and contact LinkedIn through official channels. If card or bank details were shared, contact your bank immediately.

Reviewed by the ScamMessageChecker.com editorial team. Last reviewed 2026-06-01. Spotted something out of date? Tell us so we can review it. See how we assess scam risk.