Did I encounter a scam?

[#1]

I am new to freelancing and don’t fully understand how to handle situations where, after signing a contract, I realize I might be facing a scam or something similar. The task provided by the client stated that I needed to test the deposit and withdrawal functions, as well as other features such as advertisements, games, and live streaming. However, when I tested the deposit function, the website asked me to provide the front and back of my ID, a facial photo, my phone number, and my bank account information in order to transfer money from my bank to their virtual account in Taiwan.

Due to Taiwan’s stricter regulations on fraudulent gaming websites, although the transfer was successful, the money got stuck in the virtual account and I couldn’t retrieve it. Additionally, the third-party platform managing the virtual accounts in Taiwan warned me that this is very likely a fraudulent gaming points scheme, and advised me to stop testing the website. They also warned that they would report it to the authorities if I continued.

I still insist on not helping the client test the 'deposit and withdrawal functions.' However, I have completed all the other testing tasks (except the deposit and withdrawal functions), and in an effort to clarify the website's financial flow, I have personally made seven calls to banks and third-party platforms in Taiwan at my own expense to resolve the issue.

I hope the client can end the project soon and that I receive the payment I am due (without receiving negative feedback, as the issue lies with the client’s website, not me—I have completed everything I can do). I have invested so much in this, and I am even afraid that the warnings from Taiwanese entities may cause credit issues. I am very scared.

[#2 · Accepted solution]

Hi Vicky,

Thanks for reaching out! I understand that you are concerned about the possibility of fraud. It is essential that you stay vigilant when dealing with transactions online. If you suspect your client is involved in fraud, please report it. We take every report of suspicious or inappropriate behavior seriously. Every report goes directly to our Trust and Safety team for investigation. You can read more about it here. 

It would also be best to visit these articles for more information on how you can keep in line with Upwork's Terms of Service when engaging on the website:

• The new starter's guide to being safe and successful on Upwork
• Get to know each other before a contract
• Keeping your contact information safe

You may also want to read up on this Community article and these articles for more information about working safely through Upwork.