LinkedIn is an excellent platform for networking and job advancement, but let’s be honest: the internet can be a wild west.
Thus, today we’re going to discuss something that no one wants to think about: a LinkedIn hacked account.
Yep, it can happen to the best of us.
This article will walk you through the process of dealing with a hacked LinkedIn account, from identifying the warning signs to taking prompt action, regaining trust, and avoiding future assaults.
Ready? Scroll down!
Recognizing Signs of Hacked Accounts
Here are some of the common indicators that may suggest a hack:
- Receiving an email from LinkedIn informing you of a password change, a login from an unknown device or location, or unusual activity on your account.
- Noticing suspicious activity on your profile, including changes in your name, photo, summary, endorsements, skills, recommendations, job history, or even your LinkedIn headline.
- Seeing posts, comments, messages, or invites that you did not make or send on your LinkedIn feed, inbox, or network.
- Experiencing trouble signing into your account or being temporarily locked out of your hacked LinkedIn account.
- Getting complaints or inquiries from your connections or other LinkedIn users about spam, phishing, or inappropriate content coming from you.
If you notice any of these signs that scream “hack alert,” act quickly and follow the steps below to secure your account and protect your data.
Immediate Steps to Take When Hacked
So, you’ve awoken to a nightmare – your LinkedIn is under attack.
Do not break out in a cold sweat just yet; it is time to act quickly.
If you still have access to your account, you should change your password first. If you are unable to log into your account, follow the procedure below for the account recovery process.
Contacting LinkedIn Support
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t panic, help is only a few clicks away. Contact LinkedIn support and report your hacked account.
You can do this by completing the Reporting Account Access Issue form on LinkedIn’s website. You’ll need to include the account’s associated email address, phone number, your account URL, and a brief overview of the problem.
LinkedIn support will then verify your identity and help you regain access to your account. Be patient ’cause support response time can take up to several days, depending on the volume of support requests.
Securing Your Email and Linked Accounts
The next step is to secure your email and any additional accounts that are linked to your LinkedIn company profile, such as Facebook, Twitter, Google, or Microsoft.
Hackers frequently use the same password and email address to access multiple accounts, so change your passwords and set up two-factor authentication on all of your accounts as soon as possible.
You should also examine your email settings for any evidence of illegal access or modifications.
If you use the same email address for additional business or personal reasons, alert your contacts about possible phishing emails sent from your address.
Reviewing Account Activity and Connections
Now it’s time to go through your profile, feed, and inbox to remove or report any comments, posts, and messages that seem harmful or suspicious.
Also, check your current sessions to see where you’re signed into LinkedIn. If you are unable to identify a login or device, reset your password and log out of the session.
Don’t forget to check the email addresses and phone numbers linked with your compromised account and delete any that you don’t recognize or use.
Restoring and Resetting Account Access
As we’ve already mentioned, if you’re unable to access your account, please contact LinkedIn Support. They will help you with LinkedIn account recovery.
LinkedIn will request that you authenticate your identity to establish that you are the account’s lawful owner. This might include confirming your email address and phone number or completing security questions.
Once your identity is established, LinkedIn will assist you in regaining access to your account.
You should additionally click on “Account recovery options” to update your contact information in case of a compromise.
Updating Security Settings
The last step in safeguarding compromised accounts is changing the security settings and preferences.
This includes changing your privacy and visibility settings, updating your information and permissions, and opting out of unnecessary features or services.
If you haven’t already, change your account password right now.
Use a generator to create unique and strong passwords for each platform. To add an extra degree of protection, activate two-step verification, which prohibits LinkedIn account hacks even if someone knows your login and password.
Monitoring for Unusual Activity
After completing all of the measures outlined above, you should routinely check your LinkedIn account for any odd or suspicious behavior. Review your recent connections to ensure that you are only interacting with people you know or trust.
Examine the posts and activities that occurred while your account was compromised to confirm that only your legitimate postings are linked to your account.
Next, review your connections, activities, and LinkedIn conversations, and remove any acts you did not complete.
To secure your devices and data, you should keep your password and security settings up to date, as well as use reliable antivirus or anti-malware software.
Rebuilding Trust and Professional Image
In the aftermath of a hacked account, rebuilding trust and protecting your professional image is essential to minimize potential harm to your reputation, credibility, and relationships.
To handle these circumstances well, take into account the following tactics:
- Open Communication: Write a post telling your friends on LinkedIn and other users about the security incident. Express regret for any trouble you may have caused, describe the actions you took to protect your account, and reassure them that it is safe as of right now.
- Reconnect & Re-engage: Get in touch with people you’ve interacted with before on LinkedIn or during the breach. Rekindle your connections, go back to your regular activities, and use the platform to interact by sharing, liking, commenting, publishing, and joining groups.
- Request Support and Feedback: Ask your connections for feedback on the security and account recovery procedures you have put in place. Pay attention to their compliments, recommendations, and worries. Thank them for their cooperation, understanding, and support. Moreover, help those who are going through similar things by sharing your knowledge and experiences to create a network of support.
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Turn this setback into an opportunity for growth with AimFox by your side.
Preventive Measures for Future Security
Keeping LinkedIn accounts safe is the best way to protect one’s online identity.
To strengthen account security and avoid any breaches, implement these precautionary measures:
- Strengthen Your Password: Make sure your LinkedIn password is strong and distinct, and change it frequently. Use unique passwords for every account you have, avoiding popular options like your name or birthdate. To create and save passwords securely, use a password manager.
- Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Give your LinkedIn account and any linked accounts 2FA to provide an additional layer of protection. Maintain the security and usability of your phone number and email address by updating recovery options on a regular basis.
- Take Caution When Sharing: Use caution when connecting with people and be careful about what you share on LinkedIn. Steer clear of divulging private information like phone numbers, addresses, or bank account data. Avoid opening attachments, messages, or links that seem fishy, and report any issues you find to LinkedIn support right away.
Final Comments
In summary, regaining access to a LinkedIn hacked account is similar to making a successful career comeback. One thing’s certain, though – the internet can be a scary place, and if not secured, your data is one click away from being stolen from you.
Luckily, we’ve walked you through the necessary steps to keep you safe and sound and your leads in place.
So, rebuild your digital empire, take the necessary action, and never forget that security is a continuous process rather than a one-time sprint.
Oh, and sign up for AimFox to upgrade your lead game even more once you’re back on track.
Stay safe!
