Unknown LinkedIn Connections Could Be Hackers in Disguise

LinkedIn is a social and professional networking site upon which users build professional networks by making connections with others in their field or related fields. Users then utilize these connections to find out about jobs, career advancement opportunities, and more. Unlike other social networking sites upon which users ‘friend’ other users, users of LinkedIn are often not previously acquainted with those requesting to make a connection. This can put the privacy and security of a user’s files and data in jeopardy as some unknown connections may actually be hackers in disguise.

Unknown Connections Could be Hackers in Disguise

Hackers may use LinkedIn to target senior level executives. In order to accomplish this goal, however, the hacker may try to connect with junior level executives and others within the company in order to seem as though they have a legitimate reason to try to connect with the upper level execs. When the hacker gains the connections that he or she is seeking, the hacker then tries to gain access to sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, credit card information, company information, and more. In addition to trying to connect to higher-ups within an organization, a hacker may pose as a recruiter or other trustworthy connection in order to either get users to open damaging links or visit websites that contain malware.

Read More: The Hackers Are Here: 3 Ways Cybercriminals Target Android Phones

How to Spot a Potential Hacker

Fake profiles often contain fake pictures that have been retrieved from Google Images or other free stock photography sites. In addition, the profile information may be copied from somewhere else on the internet; this can be detected, oftentimes, through a quick internet search. Furthermore, it is important to take some time to try and gauge why those seeking connections would want to connect with you. One key to spotting a potential hacker is to assess your position within your company, organization, or industry. Hackers have a tendency to target upper level professionals through LinkedIn. Thus, those in senior level positions should only connect with people on LinkedIn whose identities they can verify offline.

PSafe and LinkedIn Hackers

PSafe provides products that can help to make a LinkedIn user’s Android device safer and more efficient. PSafe Total’s antivirus protection guards your device against malicious online threats so that even if you do fall victim to a LinkedIn hacker, your device and personal information will be safe. PSafe Total Windows will also keep your desktop computer safe from threats.