Originally Posted by
studio253
I signed up originally at the request of a friend that wanted me to give him a recommendation, it's not as pathetic as it sounds

I didn't have any issues with spam requests until last week when I heard from about six or so people that I don't know at all. I denied their requests.
When this happens I do exactly as you do and denied the connection. If it appears to be someone just trying to boost their connection count I also report them via the same mechanism that you deny the connection. I have noticed a few "recruiters" that are trying to connect to anyone and everyone. It's bound to happen but it has only happened to me once or twice.