How to Protect Yourself from Internet Fraud on NaijaLancers
🛡️ Read to Earn: Safety Guide
Learn how to protect yourself from fraud on NaijaLancers
How to Protect Yourself from Internet Fraud on NaijaLancers
Internet fraud is real. Every freelance platform has scammers trying to trick both workers and clients. But NaijaLancers has a built-in protection system called Escrow that keeps your money safe—if you use it correctly.
What Is Escrow?
Escrow is a neutral holding account. When a client agrees to pay you, the money doesn't go directly to them or to you. It goes into a safe holding area that neither party can touch until the work is completed and approved.
How Escrow Works on NaijaLancers
Step 1: Discuss the Job in Chat
Talk about what needs to be done, how much it costs, and when you'll deliver. Keep all discussions inside NaijaLancers chat.
Step 2: Client Agrees to Your Price
Let's say you agreed on ₦15,000 for a website design.
Step 3: Client Clicks "Safe Pay"
On the left hand side of the chat, there is a button called Safe Pay. The client clicks this to start escrow.
If a client refuses to use Safe Pay, do not start working.
Step 4: Client Deposits Money First
The client must have money in their wallet before escrow can be created. They cannot create escrow with empty pockets.
Step 5: Client Proposes the Amount
After clicking Safe Pay, the client enters the amount and submits it to you for approval.
Step 6: You Accept or Negotiate
You will see the proposed amount. You can Accept or Reject. Never accept less than you agreed.
Step 7: Money Moves to Escrow
Once you accept, the money is locked in escrow. Neither you nor the client can touch it. The money is safe waiting for you.
Step 8: Do the Work
Now deliver what you promised. Send files through NaijaLancers chat.
Step 9: Click "Finish" When Done
After delivering, go back to the escrow and click Finish. This tells the platform you have completed your part.
Step 10: Client Releases Payment
If the client is happy, they click Release Payment. The money moves from escrow to your wallet. You can now withdraw it.
Why Escrow Protects You
Without escrow, a client could pay you and reverse it, receive your work and disappear, or claim they never received anything. With escrow, the money exists before you start and cannot be taken back.
- Starting work before escrow is created
- Accepting payment outside NaijaLancers
- Releasing work before payment is released
- Ignoring disputes instead of resolving them
Red Flags to Watch For
Quick Safety Checklist
Your time is valuable. Don't let anyone take it for free.
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