How to Spot Fake LinkedIn Invoice and Payment Request Messages Targeting Australian Small Businesses

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake LinkedIn Invoice and Payment Request Messages Targeting Australian Small Businesses. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Australian small businesses are increasingly targeted by fraudulent payment requests sent via LinkedIn. These scams often originate from compromised accounts of trusted contacts, making the messages appear legitimate. Recognising the warning signs early can protect your organisation from financial loss and data theft.

Identifying Fake LinkedIn Invoice Messages

Fraudsters typically use urgency and authority to pressure victims into bypassing standard payment verification processes. Look for these common indicators:

• A request from a connection you know, but the tone or writing style seems unusual.
• An unexpected invoice attached to a LinkedIn message, often claiming an overdue payment.
• Urgent language demanding immediate payment to avoid service interruption or legal action.
• Bank account details that differ from those previously used by the supplier.
• Links to external websites asking you to log in to view or pay an invoice.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Do not click any links or download attachments from the suspicious LinkedIn message.
2. Contact the sender through a known phone number or email address—never reply directly to the LinkedIn message.
3. Verify the invoice details against your own records and previous correspondence.
4. If the request is fraudulent, report the message to LinkedIn using the Report option in the conversation.
5. Change your LinkedIn password and enable two-factor authentication if you suspect your own account may be compromised.

Detailed Instructions

Verifying a Payment Request

1. Open your email or accounting software and search for previous invoices from the supplier.
2. Compare the bank account name, BSB, and account number on the new request with past payments.
3. Call the supplier using a phone number from their official website or your existing contact list—not a number provided in the LinkedIn message.
4. Confirm whether they actually sent the invoice and if the payment details are correct.

Reporting a Suspicious LinkedIn Message

1. Open the LinkedIn message containing the suspicious request.
2. Click the More icon (three dots) in the message header.
3. Select Report from the dropdown menu.
4. Choose the appropriate reporting category and follow the prompts to submit the report to LinkedIn.
5. Delete the message from your inbox to avoid accidentally clicking it later.

Securing Your LinkedIn Account

1. Sign in to LinkedIn and click your profile picture, then select Settings & Privacy.
2. Go to Sign in & security > Two-factor authentication.
3. Turn on two-factor authentication and choose your preferred verification method.
4. Review Where you're signed in and sign out of any unfamiliar devices or locations.
5. Update your password if you have reused it on other websites.

When to Get Help

If you have already made a payment to a fraudulent account, contact your bank immediately. If you suspect your LinkedIn or email account has been compromised, Open a Ticket with 220 Internet Services for assistance securing your accounts.

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