Detecting Scammers on Upwork

Introduction

Part of thriving on platforms such as Upwork involves not just mastering your craft and communicating effectively with clients but also being able to stay safe from scams. Here are some important pointers:

1. Too Good To Be True Offers

Most upwork scams start by offering work that appears too good to be true. It’s important to understand the market rates for your skills and be wary of any job offers that greatly exceed those rates without a logical reason. If a job offer or payment seems surprisingly generous, chances are it’s a scam.

2. Avoiding Upwork’s Payment System

Warning: When a client suggests making payment outside Upwork’s secure platform, be alarmed. Upwork has systems in place to protect both clients and freelancers from scams, cheating, and misunderstandings. If a client refuses to use these secure channels, it’s likely they have malicious intentions.

3. Asking for Personal Information

Clients should never ask for your personal, sensitive information such as bank details, social security number, or your personal email. All the necessary information and communication can be securely done through Upwork’s system.

4. Requiring Upfront Payment for “Expenses”

Some scam clients will ask you to make upfront payments to cover certain expenses necessary for the job. Once you send the money, they disappear, leaving you out-of-pocket for expenses that didn’t even exist.

Some Quick Tips:

• Always research your potential client: Check their hiring history, feedback from previous employees and how long they have been on the platform.
• Trust your gut:
  If you are sensing that something is off, it most probably is. Don’t feel obligated to continue with a client if something doesn’t feel right.
• Keep communication within Upwork until you trust the client. Your account could be suspended for sharing contact information in the early stages of a job.
• Always have a contract in place and make sure it covers all aspects of the job before starting work.

Remember that scams are a rare exception, not a rule, on this platform. So, don’t be discouraged. Continue improving your skills and applying to jobs, and you’ll land a legitimate opportunity in no time. Happy freelancing!