7 Scams to Avoid in the International Job Market (2025 Guide)
Jun 3, 2025

The global freelance economy continues to grow, but as the freelance economy grows, so does the number of scams targeting unsuspecting gig workers, especially on international job platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com, and even through social media job boards.
This guide will help you identify and avoid the most common freelancer scams while showing how Hurupay's secure payment solutions can protect your hard-earned income.
1. Fake Job Offers: The "Too-Good-To-Be-True" Trap
Scammers frequently post attractive gigs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, often impersonating legitimate companies. These offers promise high pay for minimal effort but may disappear after you complete the work—or worse, demand upfront fees.
Warning Signs:
Unusually high pay for simple tasks
Requests for payment before work begins
Poor communication or unprofessional emails
Protection Tips:
Research companies thoroughly before accepting work
Never pay to secure a freelance job
Use Hurupay's virtual USD accounts for secure, traceable payments
2. Overpayment Scams: The Fake Check Scheme
In this scam, a "client" sends an overpayment (often via fake check) and asks you to refund the difference. When the check bounces, you're responsible for the full amount.
Protection Tips:
Reject any overpayment and insist on corrected invoices
Use payment platforms with escrow protection
Consider Hurupay's verified accounts for safer transactions
3. Identity Theft: "We Need Your ID for Verification"
Fraudsters posing as employers may request passports, bank details, or Social Security numbers for "KYC verification," then use this information for identity theft.
Protection Tips:
Only share sensitive information through secure, verified platforms
Verify employer email addresses match company domains
4. Phishing Attacks: Malicious Links Disguised as Job Materials
Scammers send malware-infected files or phishing links disguised as project briefs or employment documents.
Protection Tips:
Always verify links before clicking
Use dedicated payment apps like Hurupay instead of email payment links
5. Ghost Jobs: The Never-Ending Interview Process
Some companies post fake listings to collect resumes or test markets, with no intention of hiring.
Protection Tips:
Note how long job postings remain active
Diversify income streams to avoid reliance on single clients
6. Off-Platform Payment Requests
Clients may suggest moving payments off official platforms to avoid fees, increasing fraud risk.
Protection Tips:
Always use platform escrow services when available
For direct clients, insist on secure transfers through services like Hurupay
7. Portfolio Cloning: Stolen Work and Identity
Scammers copy portfolios and professional profiles to impersonate freelancers and secure work fraudulently.
Protection Tips:
Watermark your portfolio samples
Set up alerts for your name to detect impersonation
How Hurupay Helps Freelancers Stay Safe While Getting Paid
Hurupay is built for the global freelancer. With a Virtual USD Account, you can receive payments from platforms like PayPal, Upwork, Fiverr, Payoneer, and Stripe—securely and reliably.
Get paid in USD via ACH ( same day)
Receive WIRE transfers within 2–3 business days
Free withdrawals via Bank Transfer, Mobile Money, or Crypto Exchange
Full KYC process for added security and compliance
By using Hurupay, you keep your funds safe and gain more control over how and where you access your money, without relying on shady intermediaries.
Final Safety Recommendations
Trust your instincts—if an offer seems suspicious, it probably is
Stick to reputable platforms with dispute resolution
Use USD accounts to avoid currency conversion risks
Need a secure payment solution?
Visit Hurupay to set up your free USD account today.