Spotting Phishing Attempts on LinkedIn

In today’s interconnected digital world, even professional networks like LinkedIn can be breeding grounds for cyber threats. Recently, I encountered a phishing attempt on LinkedIn that highlighted the evolving tactics adversaries use to exploit individuals and organizations. As a SOC (Security Operations Center) analyst, this incident served as both a reminder and a learning opportunity about how cybercriminals operate.

Let me walk you through the event and the Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) I identified, along with actionable advice to protect yourself and your organization.

The Encounter: A Case Study in Phishing Tactics

The individual who reached out to me appeared to be a professional with a vague profile. At first glance, their messages seemed harmless, but subtle clues revealed their true intent. Here’s how it unfolded:

1. Social Engineering at Play

The conversation began with flattery.

“Your career in cybersecurity is truly impressive. It’s rare to see someone with such expertise in this field!”

This was a clear attempt to disarm me by stroking my ego. Social engineering is a cornerstone of phishing, as attackers exploit psychological triggers like trust…