LinkedIn takes action to tackle fake accounts

LinkedIn to Launch New Verification Features to Combat Fake Accounts

LinkedIn is rolling out new verification features over the coming months aimed at tackling the rise of fake profiles on its platform. As the leading professional networking site, LinkedIn offers valuable opportunities to connect with peers, find jobs, and recruit talent. However, its popularity has also attracted scammers who create fraudulent accounts for malicious purposes.

The Growing Problem of Fake LinkedIn Accounts

Fake and bot-like profiles have been increasingly appearing across LinkedIn. These accounts often spam users, trick genuine members into downloading malware, or scam them into revealing personal and professional data.

Since LinkedIn profiles contain detailed information such as job history, contact details, and professional affiliations, they are prime targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit that data.

These fake accounts are often convincing - some even use AI-generated deepfake images and carefully crafted bios that mimic real professionals, making them hard to spot.

How LinkedIn Plans to Fight Fake Profiles

To address this issue, Microsoft-owned LinkedIn is partnering with secure identity verification platform Clear to enhance account authentication.

The new process will require users to verify their identity using:

• Work email addresses
• Government-issued ID
• Phone numbers

This verification system is currently being tested in the United States, with plans to roll it out globally if successful.

Verified accounts will receive a verification badge similar to Twitter’s, but unlike Twitter, LinkedIn will provide this verification free of charge.

Stay Secure and Informed

We’ll keep you updated as more details emerge about LinkedIn’s verification rollout. Meanwhile, if you want help securing your online accounts and protecting your digital identity, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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