LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that connects over 900 million users worldwide. While it is great for career opportunities, networking, and personal branding, it also collects a lot of data about your activities, connections, and personal details.
To protect your privacy, security, and professional reputation, it is essential to adjust your LinkedIn privacy settings. This guide will help you manage who can see your profile, how LinkedIn tracks your data, and how to prevent unwanted contact.
Why LinkedIn Privacy Settings Matter
- Prevent identity theft and fraud.
- Control who can see your activity and connections.
- Reduce spam, unwanted messages, and fake recruiters.
- Limit data tracking and targeted ads.
- Protect your personal and professional reputation.
How to Access LinkedIn Privacy Settings
- Open LinkedIn and click on your profile picture (top right corner).
2. Select “Settings & Privacy.”
3. Explore different privacy options under:
- Sign-in & Security
- Visibility
- Data Privacy
- Advertising Data
- Communications
Key LinkedIn Privacy Settings & How to Adjust Them
1. Control Who Can See Your Profile & Activity
- Who Can See Your Profile Information?
Go to Settings & Privacy > Visibility > Profile Viewing Options.
Choose:
- Your name and headline (default).
- Private profile characteristics (e.g., “LinkedIn Member”).
- Completely anonymous (recommended for browsing without being seen).
- Who Can See Your Connections?
Settings & Privacy > Visibility > Connections.
Choose:
- Only You (recommended for privacy).
- Your Connections (default).
- Who Can See When You’re Online?
Settings & Privacy > Visibility > Manage Active Status.
Set to:
- No One (for complete privacy).
- Only Your Connections (limited visibility).
- All LinkedIn Members (active status will be visible to all)
- Who Can See Your Network & Endorsements?
Settings & Privacy > Visibility > Profile Discovery & Mentions.
Disable “Mention by others” to stop people from tagging you in posts.
2. Manage Your LinkedIn Search & Data Tracking
- Stop Search Engines from Showing Your LinkedIn Profile
Settings & Privacy > Visibility > Edit Your Public Profile. - Turn OFF “Public profile visibility” to prevent Google and other search engines from indexing your profile.
- Limit LinkedIn’s Data Collection & Usage
Settings & Privacy > Data Privacy > Manage Data & Activity.
Disable options that allow LinkedIn to:
- Track your location.
- Collect data from other websites.
- Use your data for research.
- Disable Personalized Ads & Third-Party Data Sharing
Settings & Privacy > Advertising Data > Ad Preferences.
Turn OFF:
- Personalized Ads (to reduce targeted marketing).
- Data Sharing with Third Parties.
- Manage Cookies & Tracking
Settings & Privacy > Data Privacy > Manage Cookies.
Disable unnecessary tracking cookies.
3. Control Who Can Contact & Message You
- Who Can Send You Connection Requests?
Settings & Privacy > Data Privacy > Invitations to Connect.
Choose:
- Only People Who Know Your Email (to block random invites).
- Only People in Your Network.
- Who Can Message You on LinkedIn?
Settings & Privacy > Data Privacy > Messaging Experience.
Disable “Message Requests from LinkedIn Members” to avoid spam. - Block Unwanted or Suspicious Accounts
Go to their profile > Click “More” > Select “Block or Report.” - Reduce Spam & InMail Messages
Settings & Privacy > Data Privacy > Who Can Reach You.
Turn Off Sponsored Messages & InMail from Recruiters (if you’re not job-hunting).
4. Secure Your LinkedIn Account from Hackers
- Enable Two-Step Verification
Settings & Privacy > Sign-in & Security > Two-Step Verification.
Set Up SMS or Authentication App (highly recommended). - Monitor & Log Out Suspicious Devices
Settings & Privacy > Sign-in & Security > Where You’re Signed In.
Log out devices you don’t recognize. - Change Your Password Regularly
Settings & Privacy > Sign-in & Security > Change Password.
Use a strong, unique password and update it every 6 months.
Extra Tips to Stay Safe on LinkedIn
- Don’t accept connection requests from strangers.
- Avoid clicking on unknown links or job offers.
- Beware of fake recruiters asking for personal info.
- Report phishing messages & suspicious accounts.
- Keep your email and phone number private.
Final Thoughts
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking and career growth, but protecting your privacy is just as important. By managing your visibility, limiting data tracking, and securing your account, you can enjoy LinkedIn safely and professionally.