This is a scam. You will unfortunately not be paid for your work as you were not hired on Upwork. If you sent money, it is lost as well.
The best way to stay safe is to comply to Upwork's Terms of Service.
Communicating outside of Upwork is not allowed before having a contract in place.
Sending money to a client or receiving money outside of Upwork is also a violation of the Terms of Service.
As a new freelancer, there is a lot you need to learn before jumping right in to sending proposals.
Communicating outside of Upwork is not allowed before having a contract in place and
sending money to a client or receiving money outside of Upwork are also a violation
of Upwork’s Terms of Service you agreed to when you signed up. Link below.
Upwork Legal Center
Please also read the following resources to get you up to speed on how to use Upwork, and learn what is allowed and not allowed. That will help keep you safe and in compliance with the rules.
Freelancing 101 on Upwork - Upwork Community
Upwork Legal Center
Get Started – Upwork Customer Service & Support | Upwork Help
Upwork Customer Service & Support | Upwork Help
List of red flags for scams - Upwork Community
Report Suspicious User Activity – Upwork Customer Service & Support | Upwork Help
Understanding and Using Connects – Upwork Customer Service & Support | Upwork Help
Tips to Avoid Questionable Jobs - Upwork Community
