Why I Couldn't Verify My LinkedIn Profile (And the One Simple Trick That Worked)
How switching from my iPhone to an Android device solved the international passport authentication problem in 4 minutes.
As a self-taught engineer, I've learned to solve real-world problems through hands-on experience. I don't just write code - I architect solutions that scale, secure APIs that protect data, and create interfaces that users love.
My approach is simple: understand the problem deeply, design the right solution, and build it with clean, maintainable code. Whether it's a RESTful API, a complex database schema, or a pixel-perfect frontend, I ensure every piece works together seamlessly.
🧩 My LinkedIn Journey
In February 2024, I joined the LinkedIn Blue app community and simultaneously began my journey to become a software developer.
I was just a young boy wandering through the internet, trying to find something meaningful to do with my life and youth. Joining LinkedIn opened a new world for me. I began connecting with amazing individuals — developers, recruiters, founders, solopreneurs, and mentees — each interaction teaching me something new every time I logged in.
🔐 My Verification Struggle
One day, I came across a post explaining how to verify your LinkedIn authenticity using a valid international passport. I tried several times, but LinkedIn’s system couldn’t detect the chip it was looking for inside my passport.
At first, I thought the problem was my passport — maybe something was wrong with it. What I didn’t know was that the real issue was with my iPhone, which apparently isn’t NFC-enabled for that type of passport scan.
This became one of my biggest frustrations with LinkedIn verification. I had all the right documents, but couldn’t get verified.
💡 The Turning Point
Fast forward to yesterday — I came across a powerful post by Abdulrafiu Izuafa, an AI & Community leader, Microsoft MVP, and AI/ML Architect, where he shared something he called Networking 101.
He said:
“Only connect with people who have a verified LinkedIn profile.
This isn’t about being picky; it’s about protecting your network from scammers and impersonators.”
That post hit me deeply. I realized how important authenticity is in a professional network. It inspired me to try verifying my account one more time.
⚙️ The Simple Trick That Worked
So I decided to give it another go.
First, I tried again with my iPhone — same old error.
Then, something told me to switch devices.
I picked up my Samsung Android phone, retried the verification process… and in less than four minutes, my LinkedIn profile was verified using my international passport!
No errors. No stress. Just smooth verification on the first try.
🙌 Gratitude
I’m grateful to Abdulrafiu Izuafa for that motivating post,
to Samsung for saving the day,
and of course, to LinkedIn for creating a platform where authenticity and trust really matter.
🌍 Final Thoughts
Sometimes, the difference between frustration and success is just a simple switch in tools, mindset, or approach.
If you’ve been struggling to verify your LinkedIn account, try using an Android phone (especially one with NFC enabled). That small change might be all it takes to get verified.
Stay authentic, keep learning, and keep growing your network with real, trustworthy people. 💙
