LinkedIn’s security check is an important process that verifies a user’s identity and ensures the security of the platform. When your LinkedIn account undergoes a security check, it means LinkedIn has detected some unusual activity and wants to double check that your account has not been compromised.
While security checks are inconvenient, they are an essential part of keeping LinkedIn safe and secure for all users. The amount of time a security check takes can vary based on the specifics of your case. Here is an in-depth look at what triggers LinkedIn security checks, how long they usually take, and what you can do to get through the process smoothly.
What Triggers a LinkedIn Security Check?
There are a few common triggers that may prompt LinkedIn to put your account under review:
Suspicious Login Activity
If LinkedIn notices your account is being accessed from an unknown device or IP address, this raises a red flag. LinkedIn will restrict your account access until you can confirm it is really you trying to log in. This is to prevent hackers from accessing your account.
Unusual Profile Edits
If your LinkedIn profile is suddenly edited with major changes in a short timeframe, this looks suspicious to LinkedIn’s security algorithms. Things like changing your name, headline, location, skills, etc. may trigger a security check to confirm the changes are legitimate.
Uncharacteristic Messaging
If you suddenly start messaging lots of random LinkedIn members out of the blue, particularly with suspicious links or content, LinkedIn may intervene to determine if your account has been compromised. This protects other members from potential spam or phishing attempts.
Multiple Reported Issues
If other LinkedIn members report your profile or activity as inappropriate, fake, or suspicious in some way, LinkedIn will lock down your account temporarily while they investigate. Having multiple reports is more likely to trigger a security check.
Sharing Prohibited Content
Posting prohibited material such as copyrighted content, hate speech, abusive content etc. is against LinkedIn policies and may result in your account being restricted for further review.
How Long Does a LinkedIn Security Check Take?
The duration of LinkedIn security checks can vary anywhere from 24 hours to 14 days in more complex cases. Here are the general timeframes to expect:
24-48 Hours
For straightforward security reviews where no prohibited activity was detected, LinkedIn usually completes the process within 24-48 hours. Expect to regain full access to your account within a couple days at most.
3-5 Days
If LinkedIn finds minor violations that don’t warrant account termination, you may be asked to verify your identity or make corrections. This can take 3-5 days to sort out before your account is restored.
1-2 Weeks
When violations are more serious such as sharing prohibited content or harassing other members, LinkedIn will conduct an in-depth investigation. This can take 1-2 weeks before a final decision is made on your account status.
The level of restriction placed on your account will also impact how long the security check lasts. A full account suspension will likely take longer than just being blocked from posting or messaging temporarily.
How to Get Through a LinkedIn Security Check
Here are some tips to smooth the security check process and regain access faster:
Stay Calm
It can be frustrating to have your account restricted, but avoid panicking or overreacting as this can make matters worse. Maintain professional communication as you sort out the issue.
Check Notifications
LinkedIn will send notifications explaining why your account is restricted and any action needed to restore it. Check your inbox and LinkedIn notifications regularly for updates.
Provide Valid ID
To confirm your identity, LinkedIn may prompt you to provide a photo ID. Make sure to send valid documentation like a driver’s license or passport when requested.
Secure Your Accounts
Take measures like updating passwords and enabling two-factor authentication to enhance the security of your LinkedIn and associated email accounts.
Remove Prohibited Content
If your account was flagged for inappropriate posts, messages, etc. deleting that content quickly can accelerate the review process.
Adjust Activity
If you were sending too many messages or connection requests, slow down your outreach while your account is being evaluated.
Wait Patiently
While follow up is reasonable, avoid pestering LinkedIn support constantly as they will respond when a decision has been made on your account.
Conclusion
In summary, most straightforward LinkedIn security checks take 24-48 hours, while more complex cases can take 1-2 weeks to thoroughly investigate. Avoid behavior that triggers security reviews, and respond cooperatively if your account is ever restricted to get back to normal access as soon as possible. With patience and proper precautions, you can get through a LinkedIn security check smoothly.
Security Check Trigger | Normal Duration |
---|---|
Suspicious login activity | 24-48 hours |
Unusual profile edits | 24-48 hours |
Uncharacteristic messaging | 3-5 days |
Multiple reported issues | 1-2 weeks |
Sharing prohibited content | 1-2 weeks |
Tips to Get Through a Security Check Faster
- Stay calm and professional in communication
- Frequently check notifications
- Promptly provide valid ID when requested
- Enhance account security as needed
- Remove prohibited content immediately
- Adjust activity to avoid triggers
- Wait patiently as LinkedIn investigates