Finding out if your LinkedIn account has been compromised can be challenging. Unlike other sites, LinkedIn does not send notifications when someone logs into your account from a new device or location. However, there are several signs you can watch out for to determine if your LinkedIn has been hacked:
Unexpected connection requests
One of the most common signs of a hacked LinkedIn account is getting connection requests from people you don’t know. Especially if they are sending generic invitations without personalized messages. Your hacked account may be used to send spam connection requests. Keep an eye out for an influx of invites from unfamiliar profiles.
Suspicious posts or messages
If you see posts or messages sent from your account that you did not write, that’s a major red flag. Hackers may use compromised LinkedIn accounts to distribute malicious links or spam. Strange messages to your connections should be investigated immediately.
Profile changes
Log into your account and check your profile thoroughly. Hackers often add links, change profile photos, edit job entries, and make other alterations. Look for any modifications you didn’t make. Changes to your headline, summary, experience, education, skills, interests, and contact info can signal a breach.
New email notifications
Hackers sometimes change the email associated with hacked LinkedIn accounts to lock out the real owner. If you receive notifications that your LinkedIn email has been changed without your authorization, your account may be in jeopardy. Contact LinkedIn immediately to report suspicious activity.
Unfamiliar devices
LinkedIn allows you to view where your account has been accessed from. Go to your settings and look under “Account management.” This will show you logins from devices and locations. If you see sign-ins from places you don’t recognize, it’s possible someone else has accessed your account.
Inability to log in
If your password suddenly stops working, and you haven’t changed it, that’s a bad sign. Hackers frequently change account passwords to lock out the legitimate owner. Try resetting your password and contact LinkedIn if you cannot regain access. Repeated login failures suggest your account is compromised.
Changed preferences
Check your LinkedIn settings to see if your preferences have been altered without your knowledge. Hackers may disable notifications to hide their activity. They can also change visibility settings to make your profile and connections list public. Adjusted preferences may indicate a security problem.
Spam/phishing
Another clue your LinkedIn was hacked is if your connections start receiving suspicious messages that appear to come from you. These include links to malware, requests for personal info, or phony warnings. Your account may be hijacked to spread spam or phishing scams. Alert LinkedIn if this happens.
Suspicious ads
Take a close look at your LinkedIn ad activity if you use LinkedIn advertising. Hackers sometimes run ads fraudulently using hacked accounts and insert malicious links into them. Unexpected ads or ad clicks can be a sign of trouble. Review your ads dashboard thoroughly.
Loss of connections
A sudden drop in your LinkedIn connections count may mean your account is compromised. Hackers can delete connections to have more room to add new targets for scams and spam. Keep an eye on your connections number and investigate any unusual losses.
Inform LinkedIn
If you see definite signs your LinkedIn account has been hijacked, notify LinkedIn as soon as possible. Report suspicious activity through the “Report a problem” page. LinkedIn can then take steps to secure your account and reverse unauthorized changes. Act quickly to limit the damage.
Run antivirus software
A hacked LinkedIn account may indicate malware on your computer. Run a full antivirus scan to check for keyloggers or other infections designed to steal passwords. Make sure your operating system and security software are fully updated.
Change your password
Once you regain access to your account, immediately change your LinkedIn password. Make sure it is strong and unique. Enable two-factor authentication if available for extra security. Also update passwords on any other sites that use the same login credentials.
Review privacy settings
Double check your profile visibility, sharing preferences, and other privacy settings. Hackers may alter them to expose your data or spread scams wider through your connections. Customize settings to your comfort level.
Remove suspicious posts/connections
Delete any questionable posts, messages, ads, or connections made from your account without authorization. You may be able to remove some spam sent through your account. Sever ties with unknown connections.
Monitor activity
Keep a close eye on your account for suspicious behavior in the future. Periodically check devices logged in, posts, messages, and connections to spot any unusual activity. Consider logging out of LinkedIn when not actively using it.
Contact connections
If a hacker sent messages to your connections through your breached account, inform them. Let them know to disregard malicious links or requests for sensitive data. Warning connections about potential scams can help limit their exposure and spread.
Strengthen all account security
Take steps to improve security across all your online accounts, not just LinkedIn. Use strong unique passwords, set up two-factor authentication, and be cautious of suspicious emails/messages. Good overall account hygiene can protect you.
Acting quickly when you suspect LinkedIn account hacking can help you regain control and limit the damage. Be alert for any unauthorized changes, messages, and other red flags. Report suspicious activity to LinkedIn right away to secure your account. Strengthen your login credentials and settings to better protect your profile after a breach.