Business networking site turns into “creepy” experience for Valley professional

SCOTTSDALE, AZ - A popular website known for business networking is being used by some to hit on women.

Ashley Olson is a young professional in Scottsdale who joined linked-in to better connect in the business world. While she got some connections in her field of work, she also got something else she never expected. Her inbox flooded with hundreds of inappropriate messages from men she’s never met asking her out on dates.

“One message says, I make a lot of money and travel to some really amazing places. I would take really good care of you. One question though, are you single?” said Olson.

Olson and her twin sister have a combined total of more than 250 messages. Although she finds majority of them funny, she also sees how it can be dangerous for users.

“Luckily I have a boyfriend who is an ex-marine, so I feel fine. But this can be bad for any pretty girl who is looking to make good business connections,” said Olson.

The mass number of messages prompted Olson to put her web skills to good use, launching the website socialcreeps.com . In less than a week, it’s developed hundreds of followers, giving both men and women an outlet to repost all the “creepy” messages they’ve ever received on a non-dating website. Olson hopes it will serve as a lesson for those who choose to misuse linked-in and other networking sites meant for business.

"Put yourself in the other person's shoes, would you be comfortable receiving this message? Just think twice before sending someone a message or an email. Otherwise you may end up on socialcreeps.com,” said Olson.