Aug 26, 2016 09:38:18 AM Edited Sep 6, 2021 06:56:12 AM by Vladimir G
On occasion, you’ll see someone coming to the Community to ask, “Is this legit?” as they reference a questionable job post or request from another user.
With over 17 million users on Upwork, we recognize the need to remain vigilant about suspicious activity. And though we’ll continue doing our best to prevent or address that activity asap, we also count on you to continue being diligent in protecting your information and access. Educating yourself and trusting your instincts are key to safety.
To that end, here are some tips and best practices that can help you identify and avoid potential scams:
Payment methods: There are a number of approved choices for making payments and withdrawing funds on Upwork that clients and freelancers can select from when making or receiving payments. Only approved payment options should be used or received for payment. Additionally, talent should not send payment in any currency to clients off the platform for any reason, even in exchange for payment on the platform. Be cautious of requests to buy, sell, or transfer currencies of any kind (regular or crypto). Being asked to buy, sell, trade, or transfer any form of currency, even for a fee on Upwork, is prohibited and should be reported. For example, purchasing or transferring Bitcoin or other forms of cryptocurrency on behalf of a client is a violation of Upwork’s Terms of Service and a common scam.
We take security seriously at Upwork. You can find more information about Trust and Safety on Upwork in this Help article. If you think you’re the victim of a possible scam, immediately contact Customer Support – or use one of the “Flag as inappropriate” links throughout the site and in Messages.
In the end, trust your instincts and feel free to continue asking here in our Community. We’re here to help and we’ll continue doing whatever we can to make sure the good users of Upwork stay safe.
See more of our Stay Safe series:
May 31, 2021 08:53:37 PM Edited May 31, 2021 10:12:57 PM by Joanne Marie P
Just had 2 offers like this for supposed "Recycling Business". Two different people, same song and dance. Do VA type work, but also purchase recycling equipment as needed via them sending me a check and using my credit card for purchasing. Also wanted to pay me a fixed weekly rate directly, instead of the hourly rate through Upwork. Smfh.
May 31, 2021 10:14:11 PM by Joanne Marie P
Hi Chris,
If you see a job that seems suspicious, you can report it to us using the flagging option. You can read more on this help article and also, please check out Tips to avoid questionable jobs. You might also want to check out the information here to learn more about staying safe on Upwork.
Jun 12, 2021 10:36:47 AM Edited Jun 12, 2021 11:31:50 AM by Andrea G
Hi Lena
I need I'm new on Upwork and this is my first job offer, however, they are asking for a security fee which will be refunded. I'm not sure about this? Also, the payment method not Verified for this client.
**Edited for Community Guidelines**
Jun 12, 2021 11:40:38 AM by Andrea G
Hi Bernadet,
I checked the job post you were referring to and it seems that it's already been taken down because it was in violation of Upwork ToS and action has been taken on the client account.
Please check this help article for more information on how to use the flag option to report any inappropriate content.
Jun 13, 2021 02:07:25 AM by Bernadet M
Good Morning
Thank you so much for the reply and advice.
Regards
Bernadet
Aug 13, 2021 03:55:30 AM by M O G Habibul Isla C
Thanks for listing this up. I think if we are not aware of such activities beforehand, we might fall victim to it.
Jan 14, 2022 06:31:00 PM Edited Jan 14, 2022 06:33:19 PM by Khairul B
Hi
Lena E
Thank you so much for your helpfull post.
Feb 16, 2022 03:38:04 AM by Princia A
Hello,
My name is Princia and I have just recently joined Upwork. I submitted proposals for typing jobs. The client messaged me on Upwork with a number to text on Whatsapp or Telegram, then sent me a pdf of the different projects they need to get done. I was told that I can pick a project, then I would have to pay an 'enrollment fee' in order to start working with them. I found out later on (luckily without paying them any money) that they have taken away the job offer on Upwork but continued to talk to me via Whatsapp/Telegram. After doing research, I also found out that this is definitely not the right way to use Upwork and that they are scammers.
How do I get all my connects back that I used to apply for these jobs?
And how do I know when not to submit a proposal because an offer looks fishy?
Thank you so much for your help.
Feb 16, 2022 03:55:51 AM by Goran V
Hi Princia,
When a job is removed for violations of our TOS the Connects are refunded back to you. Please keep in mind that communicating outside of Upwork before you're hired on an official contract is not allowed. Thank you.
Apr 5, 2022 12:58:49 PM by Lorato B
Hello Lena, kindly please hook me up with a legit typing project. All I get is scammers and it's really sad because some don't even pay le after doing the job. I really need this side hustle.