Sketchy Company Requests

[#1]

Hi, everyone,

I am new here and need advice ASAP. I filed a bid for some proofreading work. I received a message on Upwork and was asked to open Skype and have an "interview" but I had to answer 11 questions. Now here is the sketchy part. The guy said he would like to work with me...but I must work off a separate computer of my own which they will send me a check so I can go buy?? And the project was supposed to be a children's storybook but the guy just said the company is a trucking company....???? ALSO that the first chapter won't be through Upwork but the next ones will. The next 6. 

Tell me this is sketchy because IDK. NEED ADVICE!!

[#2]

I wouldn't hold my breath Catherine.  If it walks like a mallard...

[#3]

It's definitely a scam, and even if it wasn't, it would be against Upwork's terms of service for you to accept a payment off the platform (you can be banned for that). Use the "flag as inappropriate" link at the top-right of the proposal page to report this client and then you'll get your connects back.

[#4]

Thank you for your help! They already deleted the proposal though how horrible is that!! Grrr. This isn't going well for my first time!

[#5]

---

Catherine P wrote:

Hi, everyone,

I am new here and need advice ASAP. I filed a bid for some proofreading work. I received a message on Upwork and was asked to open Skype and have an "interview" but I had to answer 11 questions. Now here is the sketchy part. The guy said he would like to work with me...but I must work off a separate computer of my own which they will send me a check so I can go buy?? And the project was supposed to be a children's storybook but the guy just said the company is a trucking company....???? ALSO that the first chapter won't be through Upwork but the next ones will. The next 6. 

Tell me this is sketchy because IDK. NEED ADVICE!!

---

Run away. It's 100% scam.

[#6]

This is a known scam targeting new freelancers. RUN!

[#7]

Thanks for letting me know!!

[#8]

Catherine,

Congratulations. Your senses are sufficiently developed to detect something wrong with the job. That often takes a new freelancer at least a year, usually more, and winds up costing the freelancer a pile of money. I will look at your profile, because I need at least one proofreading job done per month.

Welcome to the Land of Strange Odors. If it smells, walk away. In fact, Run, don't walk, to the nearest exit.

[#9]

Thank you for your kind words. I will be sure to run haha!

[#10]

Hi Catherine,

I'd be happy to check this for you. Please send me a PM with more information so I can check. You can PM me by clicking on my name. Thank you!