LinkedIn is one of the most important platforms for your professional life. It holds your work history, contacts, personal details, and private conversations. Because of this, hackers often target LinkedIn accounts to steal information, scam people, or spread harmful links.
The good news is that you can protect your LinkedIn account easily by following the steps below. This guide will help you secure your account completely.
Also read: How to Secure Your X (Twitter) Account From Hackers – A Complete Guide
1. Turn On Two Step Verification
Two step verification provides an extra layer of protection. Even if someone knows your password, they still cannot log in without the verification code.
How to enable it:
- Open LinkedIn
- Go to Settings and Privacy
- Select Sign in and security
- Tap Two step verification
- Choose Authenticator App or SMS code
Using an authenticator app is more secure than SMS.
2. Use a Strong, Unique Password
Weak passwords make your account easy to hack. Avoid simple passwords like your name, birthdate, or repeated numbers.
A strong password must include:
- Uppercase letters
- Lowercase letters
- Numbers
- Symbols
Example: Nt48!pQx91#
Do not reuse this password on any other website.
3. Check Active Sessions Regularly
LinkedIn shows all devices currently logged into your account. Review this list to ensure no unknown devices have access.
Steps:
- Open Settings and Privacy
- Visit Sign in and security
- Tap Where you are signed in
If you see any unfamiliar device or location, sign out immediately.
4. Enable Security Alerts
Security alerts notify you when there is suspicious login activity. Make sure you have notifications enabled so you are informed instantly.
5. Avoid Suspicious Links or Messages
Hackers often use fake job offers, investment messages, or phishing links to take over accounts. Never click a link on LinkedIn unless you completely trust the sender.
If something feels unusual or too good to be true, avoid it.
6. Secure Your Email Account
Your LinkedIn is connected to your email. If your email gets hacked, your LinkedIn can be reset or accessed.
To secure your email:
- Enable two step verification
- Use a strong password
- Update recovery options
- Remove old or unused devices
7. Avoid Using LinkedIn on Public Wi Fi
Public Wi Fi networks are unsafe. Hackers can intercept login data easily.
If you must use public Wi Fi, always use a VPN to protect your connection.
8. Keep the LinkedIn App Updated
Every update includes important security improvements. Using outdated versions increases your risk of hacking. Make sure you update the LinkedIn app and your browser regularly.
9. Remove Unnecessary Third Party App Access
Some tools and websites connect to LinkedIn and access your data. If one of those services gets compromised, your account becomes vulnerable.
To remove unwanted apps:
- Go to Settings and Privacy
- Select Data privacy
- Tap Other applications
- Remove apps you no longer use
10. Be Careful With Personal Information
Only share the necessary details on LinkedIn. Avoid adding sensitive information like personal identification numbers, private phone numbers, and unnecessary personal details.
The more information a hacker has, the easier it becomes to impersonate or target you.
Also read: How to Secure Your Gmail Account From Hackers – A Complete Guide
Final Thoughts
Securing your LinkedIn account is simple but extremely important. Hackers often target professional profiles because they contain valuable personal and business information. By enabling two step verification, using strong passwords, reviewing active sessions, and avoiding suspicious links, you can greatly reduce the risk of your account being hacked.
Stay alert, update your security settings regularly, and treat your LinkedIn account with the same care as your email or bank account. A few smart steps today can protect your professional identity for years to come.