How to detect and report potential scams
Scams come in all shapes and sizes. When discussing a project with a potential client, don’t share personal payment information or agree to unusual requests (such as accepting funds to pay other freelancers).
Here are a few more red flags that may indicate suspicious or unsafe client behavior:
Requests for unpaid work: If a client asks you to complete work without a signed proposal or payment agreement, that is a red flag and against our Code of Conduct.
Application or start-up fees: Legitimate clients will never ask you to pay to apply or begin working.
Pushing to move off-platform: Clients insisting on taking the conversation off Contra before a proposal is signed may be attempting to bypass our safety checks.
Suspicious links or downloads: Be cautious if a client asks you to download software or click unfamiliar links, especially early in the conversation.
Report any suspicious conversations to our support team immediately so we can take action.