LinkedIn shuts down 'Red Light District' of escorts offering sex to users

Professional network tightens rules on promoting adult services

Users can no longer recommend prostitutes or advertise call girls



It offers to connect the world's professionals and help them to greater success, but LinkedIn has changed its rules after finding some members were offering more than just a business relationship.

The professional networking site, which has more than 220 million members, has added a number of changes to its user agreement - including a ban on promoting escort services and prostitution.

In a statement on the site, LinkedIn says: ' Even if it is legal where you are located, [users cannot] create profiles or provide content that promotes escort services or prostitution.'

Professional touch: LinkedIn has changed its rules to prevent users listing adult services such as call girls

Promoting adult services appears to be at odds with LinkedIn's mission to offer users the chance to advertise their expertise to potential employers.

In a competitive job market, highlighting extra 'adult' services alongside professional qualifications could deter many employers.

However, prostitution is a skill that users can list on their profile and have endorsed on the site.



There are several profiles on the site offering expertise in the adult industry, but many work in law enforcement or healthcare, suggesting they offer help to those involved in the trade.

Members only: Under the old rules escort services, such as this one based in the UK, were allowed

But among those offering counselling and health screenings are companies offering call girls.



One such company is Bedroom Eyes Escort , a modelling agency in Sydney Australia, which promises 'Real girls, real images, real profiles ... real trouble!'

LinkedIn's search algorithms also reveal the extent of services being offered.

For your eyes only: Previously, if services were legal in the user's country, they could be promoted

A search for 'escorts' prompts LinkedIn to suggest searching instead for female escorts; independent escorts; call girls; hot girls; adult entertainment; escort services; and Dubai escorts.

The clarification of its user agreement appears necessary, as some LinkedIn members have been using the loophole to offer risqué encounters.