Core Concepts
Scammers on LinkedIn are actively exploiting job seekers and professionals through various deceptive tactics, and it is crucial to be vigilant in order to protect oneself from the serious consequences of falling victim to these scams.
Abstract
The article provides a comprehensive guide on how to identify and avoid common scams on LinkedIn. The author starts by defining a scammer as someone who takes unfair advantage of others, often by lying about offering something desirable.
The article then goes on to describe several common scam tactics used on LinkedIn, such as:
- "Comment #interested and I will review your LinkedIn profile" - This is a ploy to gain attention and followers, with no intention of actually reviewing profiles.
- "Comment your email id down in the comments and I will refer you" - This is a way for scammers to collect personal information that can be used for spam or malicious purposes.
- "I have this amazing new resource that can help you learn x-y-z. Share your email id in the comment section and I will send it your way" - The resource may never be provided, but the email address will be used for other purposes.
- "Earn up to $60/hour extra on the side" - This is a classic scam tactic that focuses on the high pay rather than the actual job details.
The author emphasizes that legitimate and ethical professionals will not engage in these types of tactics. They provide a direct and professional approach when offering job opportunities or resources. The article also warns against falling for scams related to visa sponsorship, as these can have severe consequences.
The author concludes by encouraging readers to learn to identify scammers and report them, in order to protect themselves and the broader LinkedIn community. The article also acknowledges the challenges of the current job market and encourages job seekers to persevere, as there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Stats
"Comment #interested and I will review your LinkedIn profile"
"Comment your email id down in the comments and I will refer you"
"I have this amazing new resource that can help you learn x-y-z. Share your email id in the comment section and I will send it your way."
"Earn up to $60/hour extra on the side"
"Due to your level of experience, the company has decided to hire you as a x-y-z. You must send the following details right away so that HR can register you and create your offer letter: full name, full home address, phone number, email id"
"Facing difficulties with work VISA in the US? We'll file it for you. Join our company"
Quotes
"If anything, they are expected to be extremely professional, no matter how lucrative a job role is. No professional and ethical recruiter is going to introduce themselves as if they are a random stranger on a matrimonial website."
"Also, they will have a legit profile. No legitimate company will ever (or maybe, mostly) hire you without interviewing you. And they're offering you a high pay and want you to join immediately? And they want all your personal information as soon as possible? You gotta tell me- how many red flags are you looking for?"
"Last but not the least, some companies advertising themselves as the ones helping out international students to stop their VISA clock are the worst scammers. They make a ton of money while proudly practicing illegal activities. And when they're caught by the governments, everyone whose VISA they sponsored is also impacted- in some cases, you are banned from entering into the country…FOREVER."