Receiving payment outside of Upwork

[#1]

I don't understand clearly this part of the payment policy:

"Only accept payment through Upwork, ensuring Payment Protection.
Receiving payment outside of Upwork violates your user agreement and could result in suspension or legal action."

Can't I use my card for other personal payments? Ex: My parents transfer me money each month, would that be illegal? Or if someone owe me money?

I mean how would Upwork know when the transaction is outside of the Upwork clients?

[#2]

Leanne:

Good news:

You misunderstood this rule completely.

You can do whatever you want with your personal finances.

The rule has nothing to do with any of that.

============

Here is what the rule means.

Clients hire freelancers on Upwork.

The freelancers get paid through Upwork.

Basically: Client can't send money to freelancers.

[#3]

Thank you for your email

[#4]

Hi Leanne,

Circumvention is when a client and freelancer meet on Upwork, but choose to conduct their relationship outside of Upwork, typically by sending payment through another means outside the platform. Learn more here.