Online scammers have been targeting small business owners by posing as freelance graphic designers or software developers, collecting a down payment and then pocketing the money, according to the Better Business Bureau in Calgary. The fake freelancers put ads on platforms such as Upwork and lure their victims using the photos and resumes of real professionals but offering lower rates. "You decide to hire them and pay a deposit upfront," reads the warning from the BBB. Report fake accounts: To report a suspicious account on Upwork, click the "Flag as inappropriate" button. The BBB also suggests freelancers take steps to make sure they are not being impersonated online by scammers who have taken their information and pictures from sites such as LinkedIn.

Source: CBC News June 23, 2020 17:03 UTC