Fiverr scams: moving off the platform, fake buyers and payment links
Quick answer
The most common Fiverr scam is a request to talk or pay outside Fiverr. Fiverr says off-platform deals expose you to scams it can't protect against, and that it will never send a QR code or payment link. Keep payments and chat on the platform.
- Pretends to be
- Fiverr
- Last updated
How it works
Fiverr is a real marketplace, and scammers target both buyers and freelancers on it. Fiverr's help center says dealing outside the platform leaves you open to scams it cannot protect against.
Typical red flags it lists: someone asks you to continue on Telegram, WhatsApp or email, claims a Fiverr payment problem needs to be fixed externally, or sends a link whose address doesn't match fiverr.com. Fake clients ask for your email or payment details to "place an order", and Fiverr says there is no legitimate reason for a client to need them. Phishing links dressed up as payouts ask for card details.
Fiverr says order payments go through the order process on the platform, and it will never send a QR code or payment link for payment.
Red flags
- A request to continue on Telegram, WhatsApp or email
- A claim that a Fiverr payment problem must be fixed outside the platform
- A link whose address isn't fiverr.com
- A client who wants your email or payment details to place an order
- A QR code or payment link supposedly from Fiverr
Example message
Hi, I'd like to hire you but I have trouble with Fiverr payments. Can we chat on [app] and I'll pay you directly through [link]?
What to do
- 1
Keep chat and payment on Fiverr
Fiverr says off-platform activity removes protection and breaks its terms.
- 2
Don't click links that aren't fiverr.com
Check the address before signing in, and don't share card or payout details through a message.
- 3
If you sent money, contact your payment provider now
Fiverr recommends asking your payment provider to cancel the transaction immediately.
- 4
If you entered login details, change your password
Change your Fiverr password and anywhere you reused it. Our guide on what to do after a data breach covers the steps.
- 5
Report the message to Fiverr
Send screenshots of the suspicious message to Fiverr Customer Support, and file with the FTC.
Report it
Check if your details are exposed with Serus
Scammers find your number and address on data brokers and people-search sites. Serus removes them.
Why you got it
Scammers rarely pick targets at random. Your name, number, address and email are sold by data brokers, listed on people-search sites and leaked in breaches, and that is what lets a message use your real details. Serus finds where your details are listed and requests removal, and alerts you when your data shows up in a breach, so fewer scammers can reach you. Freelancers who publish their name, email and location are easy to profile.
Frequently asked
Why do scammers want to move to WhatsApp or Telegram?
Fiverr says off-platform deals mean losing its payment protection and dispute process, and make it easier to deceive you.
Will Fiverr send me a payment link?
Fiverr says it will never send a QR code or payment link for payment.
Does a client need my email to place an order?
Fiverr says no. There is no legitimate reason for a client to need your email or payment information to order.
Can I get my money back?
Contact your payment provider right away and report the user to Fiverr.
Sources
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