How to Avoid Freelance Scams in India

Scams are everywhere. Here's how to protect yourself while freelancing.

Common Scam Types

1. Upfront Fee Scams

"Pay ₹500 registration to get ₹50,000/month work"

• NEVER pay to get work
• Legitimate clients don't charge

2. Fake Payment Scams

"I've sent payment, it'll arrive in 24 hours"

• Always verify payment received
• Don't release work until confirmed

3. Overpayment Scams

"I sent ₹50,000 instead of ₹5,000, please refund ₹45,000"

• Classic check fraud
• Never refund "overpayments"

4. Identity Theft

"Send me your Aadhaar and PAN for onboarding"

• Freelancers don't need to share these upfront
• Only for tax purposes after established relationship

5. Crypto/MLM Scams

"Earn ₹1 lakh/month by recruiting others"

• If income depends on recruiting, it's MLM
• Avoid crypto-related "jobs"

Red Flags

In Job Posts

• Too good to be true income
• Vague job descriptions
• Immediate hiring without interview
• Requests for upfront payment

In Communication

• Poor grammar (often international scams)
• Urgency and pressure
• Reluctance to video call
• Unusual payment methods

In Clients

• No online presence
• New accounts on platforms
• Avoid direct communication
• Aggressive about personal info

Green Flags

Legitimate Opportunities

• Clear job descriptions
• Reasonable pay expectations
• Professional communication
• Verified company presence

Good Clients

• LinkedIn profile
• Company website
• Clear payment terms
• Willing to use contracts

Verification Steps

Before Starting

1. Google the company/person
2. Check LinkedIn presence
3. Look for reviews
4. Verify website exists
5. Ask for video call

For Platforms

• Use in-platform communication
• Don't go off-platform early
• Check client ratings/reviews

Safe Payment Practices

Do

• Use contracts
• Get 50% upfront (new clients)
• Verify payment received
• Use escrow when possible

Don't

• Accept checks
• Refund "overpayments"
• Share banking credentials
• Send work before payment

What To Do If Scammed

1. Document everything
2. Report to platform
3. Report to cyber police
4. Warn community
5. Block and move on

Cyber Crime Reporting

• National Cyber Crime Portal: cybercrime.gov.in
• Helpline: 1930
• Local cyber cell

Trusted Platforms

• Upwork (has escrow)
• Fiverr (managed payments)
• LinkedIn (verify profiles)
• OnlineSideHustle.in (vetted opportunities)

Stay Safe

• Trust your instincts
• If it feels wrong, it probably is
• Always verify before trusting

Join OnlineSideHustle

We vet all opportunities. Safe freelancing guaranteed!