Avoid These Common Freelance Writing Scams to Stay Safe
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Understanding Freelance Writing Risks
Freelance writing offers a unique opportunity to select your clients and establish your own timetable. However, not everyone you encounter online is trustworthy. Engaging with scams can not only drain your time but also lead to significant financial losses.
With over seven years of freelancing experience, I’ve come across a variety of scams. Being aware of these fraudulent schemes is essential to safeguard yourself and minimize unnecessary stress.
Common Freelance Writing Scams to Watch For
Free Sample Requests
While it’s typical for clients to ask for writing samples, be wary if they seek unpaid samples. Unscrupulous clients may collect these "samples" without ever hiring or compensating the writer. A safer alternative is to share links to your published articles on platforms like Medium, where you can build your portfolio and potentially earn money.
Vague Project Details
A significant warning sign is when a client provides unclear project specifics, deadlines, or payment conditions. I’ve faced this issue with several new clients. Always clarify details in advance to ensure mutual understanding, which can save you from troublesome revisions down the line.
Asking to Work Off the Platform
If you’re using a writing platform, remember that they typically take a cut of your earnings, which can range from 15% to 45%. Many "clients" may attempt to persuade you to communicate outside the platform to avoid these fees. This is almost invariably a scam, and you risk having your account suspended. I’ve encountered this frequently on Upwork; the best response is simply to block such individuals.
Identity Theft
Scammers continuously devise new methods to steal personal information. It’s unwise to disclose excessive personal details to clients. Legitimate clients do not need sensitive information like your social security number or bank account details to compensate you for your work.
Ghosting After Work Submission
Ghosting isn’t limited to romantic scenarios; clients can also vanish without fulfilling payment obligations. Working through a freelancing platform can offer some protection. Additionally, having a contract might help, but pursuing legal action for a missed payment is often not worthwhile.
Upfront Payment for Promises
Beware of online scams that promise guaranteed work, high pay, or other incentives in exchange for an upfront fee. Genuine job opportunities will not require you to pay the client. Freelance writing should be an avenue for profit, not an expense.
Final Thoughts
Venturing into freelance writing can be a steep learning curve, and it's easy to stumble initially. While I’ve shared a brief overview of common scams, keep in mind that scammers continuously innovate their tactics.
Feel free to share your experiences with scams in the comments. Thank you for reading!
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