Last Updated on April 30, 2019 by Ludiah
Freelance scammers are among the many reasons why freelancers choose to work on platforms like Truelancer and Upwork. Although these sites charge some fee which sometimes may be higher, they are safer than choosing to work with someone directly.
If you have been working online, then you probably know what it means to spend hours transcribing or writing and not get paid. If you are thinking these are just myths; you will be surprised to be conned several dollars online because you weren’t keen. And if you are new to this online world, then here is how to spot freelance scammers.
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How do freelance scammers look like?
This is the same question I used to ask when I was just a newbie. But ask yourself, can you describe how a thief looks like? Of course no! That is the same case here. Until you get to know someone is a thief that is when you can describe. In freelance also, it is until you are conned several dollars, that is when you begin noticing the difference.
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Freelance scammers offer abnormal rates
When it comes to rates, these scammers know how to play their cards. They offer you abnormal rates. Their prices are tempting that you can’t even resist. For example, you will propose a rate of $10/hr, and he will offer you double of that. Here is what happened to me.
Well, when the deal is so good, think twice.
Freelance scammers do not communicate
Communication is essential on any platform. If you have a client who gives work and disappears into thin air without notification or prior notice, then think twice. You will know a customer is a scammer if he offers you with work, then tells you to send through email after finishing and that marks the end of his communication. When you come across such a client, just keep off.
Need you to buy something in return
You will spot freelance scammers by their conditions. They want you to purchase something like equipment or software so as to start working for them. They regard hiring you as a favor. If this client is a company, then it should have the necessary working equipment or software, and you shouldn’t be the one purchasing it.
Let’s work directly
Online scammers do not want to work on any site. The moment they interview you either on Peopleperhour or Upwork, their first suggestion is to work directly with you. Having direct clients is not a bad idea. Also, it doesn’t mean that everybody who wants to work directly is a scammer, but it is good to be cautious. When such a client request to move out of the freelancing site, you need to check his history to determine if he can be reliable. If he doesn’t have a client history, he might be one of the scammers.
Doesn’t want to pay upfront
When it comes to an upfront payment, such customers are not willing to do so or discuss the payment method. If you are not working with a client on a reliable website, then upfront payment is your protection.
Our final word
The list on how to spot freelance scammers is endless, but you are the determinant. Remember as technology continues to evolve, the tool continues to improvise new ways to trap you.
