Freelancer is a site where you can work as a freelancer and get paid for the work that you do. It is a great site for both freelancers and those who need freelancers. You can find all sorts of work on the site, including writing, programming, design, and more.
One common question that comes up is whether or not Freelancer is a legit site. The answer to that question is yes, it is a legit site. It is a safe and secure site to use, and you can be sure that your data and information will be protected.
Answer To The Question is Freelancer a Legitimate Site:
Freelancer is a legitimate site. The reason people question whether it is or it isn’t is because there are a lot of scammers that take advantage of the way the freelancer site works. However, if you use common sense and take the necessary precautions, you’ll be fine.
Below we will get into more detail about Freelancer and ways you can take precautions to ensure you’re not getting scammed.
What Scams Do You Have To Look Out For On Freelancer.com?
I recently did a blog post about the potential scams for upwork and this will be similar. If you want to do work on Upwork check out that blog post here and lets get into common scams for Freelancer.com
Free Sample Scams
When working on Freelancer you may get some people asking for free samples of your work. This may sound ok at first glance, but often scammers use this method to get free work.
They will use that free work and then they will move on to the next freelancer who will give them free work. They might even ask for a second free sample after you have given them the first one.
if anything, you can do cheaper work for them to see if you’re a good fit but never do free work.
Getting You Off the Site
Many scammers will try and get you off the site to different platforms like Whatsapp or Skype. This is because it is much easier to scam someone when they are not on a secure site.
Freelancer offers a lot of security features to make sure that your data is safe and that you are protected. If someone tries to get you off the site, it is likely a scam.
Not Adding Milestone Payments
When working with a new client, it is important to make sure that you add milestone payments. This means that the client will have to pay for each part of the project as it is completed.
This helps to protect both the freelancer and the client. If the client does not want to do this, then it is likely a scam and they are trying to get free work.
Make Sure The Clients Payment Method is Verified
One of the biggest red flags for a scam is when the client’s payment method is not verified. This means that the client has not put in the necessary information to make a payment.
It could be that they’re new to the platform and just haven’t gotten a chance to do it yet but it could also be that they’re a scammer. Be sure to double-check this before starting any project.
Asking for Your Bank Account Details
Another common scam is when the client asks for your bank account details. You don’t have to pay clients in advance or give them any bank account information.
This is a red flag and it is likely a scam. Be sure to avoid any project that asks for this information.
Negative Reviews
if your client has received a lot of negative reviews, it is best to stay away. This could be a sign that the client is a scammer and they are not to be trusted.
Phishing Links
If a potential client has you enter any information into a link, it is likely a scam. Phishing links are often used to steal your information.
Be sure to never enter any information into a link that is sent to you by a potential client.
What Are Some Other Downsides To Freelancer.com
Other than scams there are some other downsides to Freelancer.com.
Lack of Job Security
When working on Freelancer.com, you are not guaranteed a job. This means that if you stop working on a project, you may not be able to find another one right away.
This can be tough if you’re in the middle of a project and need money quickly. It is important to have a backup plan if this happens.
No Benefits
Unlike other jobs, freelancing does not offer any benefits. This means that you are responsible for your insurance, retirement, and taxes.
This can be tough, especially if you’re not used to doing it. Make sure that you save money aside for these expenses.
Plenty Of Competition
There are a lot of people who are freelancing and this means that you’re competing with a lot of people for jobs. This can be tough, especially if you’re new to the platform.
Be sure to put in the work and stand out from the competition.
Not Much Of a Work Environment
Unlike other jobs,freelancing does not offer a work environment. This can be tough if you’re used to working in an office.
If you’re someone who likes to be alone on a regular basis, freelancing may be a good option for you.
You Need To Manage Your Own Schedule
Unlike other jobs, freelancing does not have a set schedule. You need to be able to manage your own time and work when you’re available.
This can be tough if you’re not used to it. Make sure that you set boundaries for yourself and stick to them.
Taxes
When you’re self employed you have to take care of your own taxes. This can be tough if you’re not used to it.
Be sure to set money aside each month to cover your taxes. You may also want to consult with an accountant to help you out.
Is Freelancer Safe?
If you follow all the precautions to not get scammed by fake clients on Freelancer, it is very safe. You’re not going to get hacked, viruses, or anything of that matter from the Freelancer website itself. When it comes to freelancer sites there are just unavoidable loopholes for hackers to fool you. Things like this could happen on Upwork, Fiverr, and all of the other sites as well.
Conclusion
So, is Freelancer a legit site? Yes, it is. However, you do need to be aware of the scams that are out there and take the necessary precautions. Use common sense and be safe while working on the site.
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We have plenty of blog posts about freelancing and other side hustles. Take a look at our most recent below:
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