Fiverr Scams: What They Are & How to Avoid Them

Whether you are looking to hire a freelancer or get started with a side career, Fiverr is one of the best places to get started.

For almost a decade, Fiverr has been one of the top platforms for freelance services. Sadly with all that attention comes the potential for scams and other bad actors. By following our tips, you can effectively avoid scams and make the most out of your Fiverr experience.

We want to help you get the most out of this platform while staying safe. Here’s a look at some common Fiverr scams and how you can avoid them.

Is Fiver Safe To Use?

Fiverr is a legitimate online freelance marketplace that connects buyers and sellers of freelance online services. With millions of users, Fiverr has established itself as a safe and reliable platform for both buyers and sellers. However, as with any online platform, there are potential risks and scams to be aware of. While Fiverr has several safeguards in place to protect its users, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and informed to avoid falling victim to scams. By understanding the potential risks and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy a safe and successful experience on Fiverr.

As the largest freelance platform online, Fiverr is extremely safe to use as both a buyer and seller.

The platform has several safeguards in place to ensure that both parties are protected through the order process on Fiverr's platform. If there is a dispute, the company will mediate the situation and try to provide a solution that is suitable for both parties.

• Read our Fiverr review

Is My Data Safe on Fiverr?

Your data is safe on Fiverr whether you are a buyer or a seller. The company uses 256-bit encryption to protect your credit card information. However, you must protect your password to avoid unauthorized use of your Fiverr account. If you suspect any issues with your account, always contact Fiverr support directly to ensure your concerns are addressed properly.

Can I Cancel Fiverr Orders?

Yes, you can cancel Fiverr orders, but there are certain conditions and limitations that apply. If you’re not satisfied with the work or if the seller fails to deliver, you can request a cancellation and a refund. However, if the seller has already started working on the project, you may not be able to cancel the order. It’s essential to communicate clearly with the seller and understand their cancellation policies before placing an order. By doing so, you can avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth transaction process on Fiverr.

Fiverr’s Built-in Safety Features

Fiverr has implemented several built-in safety features to protect both buyers and sellers from potential scams and fraudulent activities. These features are designed to create a secure environment where users can confidently engage in transactions. By leveraging these safety measures, you can minimize the risk of encountering scams and enjoy a more reliable experience on the platform.

Fiverr’s Vetting System for Freelancer Credibility

Fiverr has a vetting system in place to ensure that freelancers are credible and trustworthy. Freelancers must undergo a verification process, which includes providing identification and proof of skills. Additionally, Fiverr’s rating system allows buyers to rate and review freelancers based on their performance, helping to build credibility and trust within the community. This vetting process ensures that buyers can make informed decisions when hiring freelancers, reducing the likelihood of encountering scams.

Payment Handling and Dispute Resolution

Fiverr handles all payments and provides a secure payment system to protect both buyers and sellers. In case of a dispute, Fiverr’s support team is available to resolve issues and provide assistance. Fiverr also offers a money-back guarantee, which ensures that buyers can get a refund if they’re not satisfied with the work. This secure payment handling and robust dispute resolution process help to safeguard users’ money and foster a trustworthy environment on the platform.

Credibility Through Fiverr Reviews

Fiverr reviews play a crucial role in establishing credibility and trust within the community. Buyers can leave reviews and ratings for freelancers based on their performance, which helps to build a reputation and attract more clients. Freelancers with high ratings and positive reviews are more likely to attract high-quality clients and build a successful business on the platform. By understanding the importance of Fiverr reviews and leveraging them effectively, both buyers and sellers can enhance their experience and success on Fiverr.

By understanding Fiverr’s built-in safety features and taking necessary precautions, buyers and sellers can ensure a safe and successful experience on the platform.

Can I Cancel Fiver Orders?

A buyer and seller can request to cancel an order. Typically, any party can request to cancel an order anytime during the order process. For the work to be instantly canceled, both parties have to agree on the cancellation. If there is a dispute, Fiverr will mediate the situation.

Signs That Your Fiverr Freelancer Is a Scammer

While Fiverr is one of the safest platforms for buyers, some Fiverr freelancers are either running scams or are running deceptive gigs. Here are some signs that you should look out for. Always check for negative reviews as they can be a strong indicator of a scammer.

Too Good to Be True Promises

Some freelances will offer “low ball” prices on their services. You should always be wary if the price is too good to be true. This could mean that the freelancer will not deliver quality work or they are farming out their work to a low-quality third party. New freelancers often face challenges when starting a new gig, and too-good-to-be-true promises can be a red flag.

Asking for Money Upfront

Some Fiverr freelance scammers will ask for payment upfront outside of the Fiverr platform. For instance, they may ask for money via Venmo or some other payment system. Payments outside of Fiverr are strictly forbidden. Be especially cautious with new accounts that lack reviews, as they may be created for deceptive purposes.

Wants to Communicate off the Fiverr Platform

Sometimes a scammer will want to communicate with you outside of Fiverr. This is because they are likely trying to sell you a service that Fiverr doesn’t allow or they are attempting to solicit a payment upfront. Either way, you should avoid communicating outside of Fiverr.

Doesn’t Understand Basic Questions About the Project

Some Fiverr freelances will try to sell services that they can not deliver. Therefore, you will want to have a conversation with the freelancer first. If they can not answer basic questions about the service, then they are likely not going to deliver for you.

Also Read: Upwork Scams and Upwork versus Toptal

How To Deal With A Fiverr Scammer

Tips To Avoid A Fiverr Scammer

• Never communicate outside of Fiverr – Avoid communicating outside of Fiverr to protect yourself from a potential scam. The platform cannot protect you if you are scammed outside of the platform.
• Have a conversation – Be sure to talk to the buyer or seller before beginning the job. This will give you more time to better assess the other party.
• Check the reviews – Both buyers and sellers are rated on Fiverr. Be sure to check the reviews and opt for those with an overall rating of 4.5 stars or higher.

Tips for Buyers On Fiverr

• Check the reviews – You should only consider buyers with a 4.5-star rating or higher. Pay attention to the star reviews, as they are a key indicator of a freelancer's reliability. Also, consider buyers that have at least 50 reviews on their gig.
• Avoid low ball gigs – Try to avoid the lowest priced gigs. Not all low-priced gigs are scams. However, you are much more likely to get quality work from higher-priced gigs.
• Ask the seller questions about the gigs – Be sure to ask the seller questions to make sure they are honest and they are competent.

Tips for Sellers On Fiverr

• Avoid communicating off the platform – To protect yourself from non-payment, never communicate off of the Fiverr platform.
• Set up rules before accepting the gig – Make sure you have communicated what is expected of the gig. That includes deliverable work and the deadline.
• Make sure the seller provides a full brief of the project – To avoid misunderstandings, make sure the buyer provides you with a detailed work brief.

Types Of Gigs To Avoid

There are certain types of gigs restricted by Fiverr. Sometimes these gigs slip through the cracks and are listed. However, you should avoid them since they rarely deliver on their promise.

Gigs That Promise Positive Reviews

Avoid gigs that promise positive reviews for your product or service. These reviews are fake and may end up getting flagged and taken down.

Gigs That Offer High Amounts of Web Traffic

Don’t buy gigs that promise lots of traffic to your site. This purchased traffic may be fake or low-quality visitors who have no interest in your site.

Gigs That Offer Income Opportunities

Avoid any gig that offers to make you money. These gigs are usually outright scams.

Types of Fiverr Gigs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get scammed on Fiverr?

It is possible to get scammed on Fiverr. However, the company does provide safeguards to help recover funds. However, you must never communicate outside of Fiverr with a buyer or seller. If you suspect any issues, always contact Fiverr support directly to ensure your concerns are addressed properly.

Can you cancel an order on Fiverr?

You can cancel an order on Fiverr as a buyer or a seller. Both you and the other party have to agree to the cancellation to end the order.

Can you get your money back on Fiverr?

You can get your money back on Fiverr if there is a legitimate issue with your order such as non-delivery or late delivery of work.

Is Fiverr safe for a freelancer?

Freelancing is safe on Fiverr as long as you follow the platform’s rules and avoid communicating with buyers off of the platform.

Does Fiverr protect buyers?

Fiverr protects buyers as long as they do not communicate with sellers off of the platform. Buyers can get refunds if they do not receive the work they ordered or if the work is considered very low quality.

Is Fiverr Legit?

Yes, Fiverr is a legitimate platform that connects freelancers with clients for various digital services. It has been operating since 2010 and has a structured system for payments, order tracking, and dispute resolution. However, while the platform itself is legitimate, users should remain cautious when selecting freelancers or services. Checking reviews, seller ratings, and previous work samples can help ensure a positive experience.