Note:

This article is intended to improve the support chatbot's accuracy by providing it with more detailed information. For specific actionable options or additional assistance, please engage directly with the support chatbot.

Question: I got a job offer from a client who seems suspicious. What should I do?

Answer: Scammers often lure freelancers with too-good-to-be-true offers, and keeping communication on Upwork helps you stay protected.

If you suspect a job offer might be a scam:

  • Verify the client’s profile and their payment method on Upwork. Clients with unverified payment methods can be risky.
  • Check for red flags, such as asking for payments outside of Upwork, requesting personal information upfront, promising very high pay for little work, requesting payment for credentials, or asking you to buy equipment with their own "recommended" provider.

Solution: Decline the offer and report the client to Upwork if the job offer doesn’t feel right.

Important links: https://www.upwork.com/resources/spotting-fake-job-posts, https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/211067668-Staying-Safe-on-Upwork, https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/25205969832083-Upwork-Trust-Safety 

Question: I made some payments outside the platform (Telegram, Skype, WhatsApp). Can I get my money back?

Answer: Sadly, we cannot assist with recovering payments made outside the platform. Upwork provides a secure platform for freelancers and clients to engage in projects, ensuring both parties are protected through Upwork’s payment protection systems and enhanced security through Upwork Messages. If payments and communication happen outside of Upwork, the platform cannot track or verify the transaction, and as a result, you forfeit the protection offered by Upwork. This can expose you to several risks, such as:

  • Not being paid: There’s no guarantee that the client will follow through on their promise to pay once work is completed.
  • No support for disputes: If a client refuses to pay or cancels the project without compensation, Upwork cannot intervene to help you resolve the dispute.
  • Account violations: Taking payments off-platform is a violation of Upwork's Terms of Service. This can lead to suspension or termination of your account.

Solution: What to do if you're approached for off-platform payments:

  1. Always decline any requests to take or make payments outside of Upwork. Report any such requests to Upwork.
  2. Educate the client or freelancer that Upwork provides security for both parties.
  3. If a client insists, this is a red flag that could indicate potential fraudulent behavior. Scammers often ask for off-platform payments to avoid detection.

Important links: https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/211067668-Staying-Safe-on-Upwork, https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/360052511133-Circumvention-and-why-it-s-against-the-rules, https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/360048105134-Why-Can-t-I-Get-Paid-Directly 

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