Consolidated audit

The matrix

A single table cannot tell the whole story, but it can make the tradeoffs visible fast.

15 dimensions4 platformsEditorial scoringUpdated edition 2026

Composite score

LinkedIn8.4
Blind5.2
Xing3.8
Peerlist2.9

Higher means more concern. Scores are comparative and editorial, not a security certification.

Collection matrix

DimensionLinkedInBlindXingPeerlist
Real-name identityCore product layerNot the public layerCore product layerOften public, handle-friendly
Full career historyExpected and searchableNot requiredExpected and searchableSelective, portfolio-led
Relationship graphDeep and monetizableCompany and topic communitiesProfessional contactsShallow by scale
Behavioral feed dataHigh collection pressureDiscussion engagementLower intensityNo dominant feed model
Messaging sensitivityRecruiting and business contextSensitive workplace contextStandard professional contextStandard platform context

Access and control matrix

DimensionLinkedInBlindXingPeerlist
Advertising incentiveMaterial to the ecosystemLimited but presentMore constrainedNot central
Recruiter searchDeep filteringNot resume-search ledRegional professional searchNiche candidate discovery
Jurisdictional exposureComplex cross-border postureUS-centered operationsEuropean frameSmaller company posture
User controlsMany, often buriedSimple but limitedRights-oriented controlsSmall surface
PortabilityBroad export availableContent-focusedRights-based exportLow-volume export

Method

How the score is built.

The score weights five questions: how much data is collected, how deeply relationships are modeled, how many parties can act on the data, how strong the legal and product controls are, and how much career utility a user loses by minimizing the account.

The model intentionally penalizes platforms that make privacy hard to exercise even when controls technically exist.

Suggested stack

  • Use one public high-reach profile only for discoverability.
  • Move proof-of-work to a portfolio-first page.
  • Keep anonymous workplace speech separate from identifiable profiles.
  • Export and review platform data twice a year.
  • Delete stale career details that no longer help hiring.

Get audit updates

A short monthly note when platform policies, product incentives, or practical controls change.