How does Upwork vet freelancers and stop fake accounts?

[#1]

This problem used to be a nuisance, but now it's beginning to have an effect on our business.

In the past week I've interviewed 7 people -- all of them had names and profile pics that were completely detached from the person I was talking to.

It used to be something that happened 1 out of 5 times. Now, I can't seemt to get a conversation with someone who is the person they say they are.

I don't have problems hiring people from different countries -- but I do have problems with hiring people who are clearly lying in their profile.

I'm also concerned about reporting these fake accounts because if these freelancers are as skilled as they claim to be, I'm concerned that reporting them will result in vindictive behavior.

We don't have time to be messing around with fake freelancers. We have deadlines to meet, and need to be hiring as efficiently as possible.

What is Upwork doing to guarantee that the freelancers are who they say are? Vetting procedures could be implemented.

If Upwork can't demonstrate that this is something they're actively combating, it won't be worth it to work with Upwork anymore -- and that would genuinely be a shame because Upwork is very useful, when it works out.

[#2]

Hi Kevin,

I'm sorry to hear about your experience. One of our team members will reach out to you directly via a support ticket to look into your report and assist you accordingly. 

Thank you! 

[#3]

How about looking at the freelancer's track record on the site to see if they're qualified for the work you want done? It's seems to be the only reliable way. Upwork can't really guarantee that a freelancer's claims about him/herself are true, but what the site does do well is allow people to prove their worth through the feedback they get. It's hard for dishonest people to game the feedback system.

[#4]

it's a LOT worse since you posted this! HOW can they not vet?! BUT, they DO VET for the top 1%? Right there shows THEY realize they NEED to, SHOULD be vetting. I pretty got scammed. I thought UpWork was 'safer'. To hire someone & pay them, then they 'end contract' with no notice, not being able to properly get to reviewing work, is a TERRIBLE business model. This WILL come to bite UpWork. Right now clients & freelaners are 'paying the price'. It's pretty much 'luck of the draw.' I don't think I can trust UpWork. I lost thousands & really the 'freelancer' abided by UpWork rules! Something is VERY wrong w/this scenario.