Fake LinkedIn Emails Used in Stock Market Scam

As many as 25,000 Internet users may have received a fake LinkedIn email that advised them to invest in a Chinese education software company.

According to Sophos experts, the emails, originating from the Catarina Meadows (member@linkedin.com), contain a shortened link that points to a YouTube video which advertises Neologic Animation Inc (NANI).

Graham Cluley believes that this may be an attempt to “pump up” the stock price of the company which is currently selling at only 10 cents per share.

If the scammers manage to convince enough individuals to invest, they could make a hefty profit by selling at a higher price. However, those who have made the mistake of buying stock will be left with a hole in their pockets.

Another indication of the fact that this is part of a scheme is the disclaimer posted at the end of the presentation video. It details the fact that it “does not represent a solicitation to buy or sell” the company’s securities, among other things.

Furthermore, it reveals that the marketer is expecting a compensation of $5,000 (4,000 EUR) from an “unaffiliated” third party.