Is this account alert from LinkedIn a scam?
Fake LinkedIn 'security alert' and 'account violation' messages are a common way scammers try to hijack accounts. A message, email or notification that looks like it's from LinkedIn can be genuine — but it can just as easily be a scam built to look identical. The good news: a few quick checks almost always tell a real LinkedIn message from a fake.
Genuine LinkedIn links only ever go to linkedin.com. Below is exactly what a real LinkedIn message looks like, the scams currently circulating in its name, the red flags that give a fake away, and a real example to compare against. Got a message in front of you? Check it now for an instant verdict.
What a real LinkedIn message looks like
Genuine messages from LinkedIn only ever link to linkedin.com.
- LinkedIn never sends messages from a short code or random mobile number; all official communications appear inside the linkedin.com inbox or app notifications.
- Genuine LinkedIn job or connection requests come from verified recruiter or company profiles that display the linkedin.com domain and a real profile URL.
- The platform never asks members to click an external link to complete a job application or verify identity.
- Payment or bank-detail requests never appear in any official LinkedIn message or email.
- Automated emails about security or privacy changes are sent only from addresses ending in @linkedin.com and contain no urgent payment demands.
Crucially, LinkedIn will never ask for your password or a login code by message, or threaten to delete your account within minutes.
Common LinkedIn scams
- Scammers create fake recruiter profiles offering high-paying remote roles, then ask the recipient to pay an upfront 'training' or 'equipment' fee via gift cards or bank transfer.
- Messages that look like LinkedIn connection requests contain an inert lookalike link such as linkedin-secure-login.com directing users to a fake login page that steals credentials.
- Fraudsters pose as LinkedIn support claiming an account issue and request personal details or immediate payment to 'unlock' the profile.
Red flags to watch for
- Any message claiming to be from LinkedIn that asks for money, banking details or gift-card codes before a job starts.
- A link that uses a domain other than linkedin.com, such as linkedin-secure-login.com or linkedin-job-offer.net.
- Urgent language stating the offer expires in hours or that failure to pay will cancel the application.
- Requests to move the conversation off the LinkedIn platform to WhatsApp, Telegram or personal email.
- Poor spelling, grammar or profile photos that look stock-image generic rather than professional headshots.
Scam text examples
Here's a real example of a scam message impersonating LinkedIn, with the tell-tale red flags highlighted. Compare it against anything you've received.
Hi, your profile matches our new remote marketing role at a global firm. To finalise the position you must complete a $299 background-verification payment today. Pay via the secure portal: linkedin-secure-login.com/apply or reply with your card details.
What gives it away:
- Any message claiming to be from LinkedIn that asks for money, banking details or gift-card codes before a job starts.
- A link that uses a domain other than linkedin.com, such as linkedin-secure-login.com or linkedin-job-offer.net.
- Urgent language stating the offer expires in hours or that failure to pay will cancel the application.
- Requests to move the conversation off the LinkedIn platform to WhatsApp, Telegram or personal email.
- Poor spelling, grammar or profile photos that look stock-image generic rather than professional headshots.
Not sure about your message?
Paste the suspicious LinkedIn text or email and get an instant scam verdict, free.
How to verify a message from LinkedIn
- Log in directly at linkedin.com or via the official LinkedIn mobile app and check messages there.
- Type linkedin.com into your browser yourself rather than clicking any link received in a message.
Where to report a scam impersonating LinkedIn
Received — or fell for — a message impersonating LinkedIn? Report it. It helps authorities and carriers shut the campaign down for everyone who gets the next one.
- Scamwatch — Report the scam to the ACCC's national scam service.
- ReportCyber — Report cybercrime and financial loss to the police.
- ACMA — Report scam texts and spam SMS or calls.
- Forward to 7226 (SPAM) — Forward the scam SMS to short code 7226 so your carrier can block the source.
- IDCARE — Free identity and cyber support if your details were taken.
Frequently asked questions
I got a LinkedIn message about a job that asks for payment — is it a scam?
Yes. Real recruiters on LinkedIn never ask candidates for money or banking details before work begins. Report the profile inside the app and do not click any links.
How can I tell if a LinkedIn connection request is fake?
Check the sender’s profile URL; it must end in linkedin.com. If the message contains an external link or requests payment, treat it as a scam and report it through LinkedIn’s Help Centre.
What should I do if I clicked a suspicious LinkedIn link?
Change your LinkedIn password immediately from linkedin.com, enable two-factor authentication, and monitor your accounts. Report the incident at cyber.gov.au and consider contacting IDCARE on 1300 432 273.
Related scam types
Scams impersonating LinkedIn usually fit one of these patterns. Learn how each works:
Related brands
Other social names scammers impersonate — check a message from one:
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice — always verify with LinkedIn through an official channel.