We have heard from a couple of members about overpayment scams to which they have recently fallen victim, and we would like to alert our other members to be wary.

It’s a great feeling to be found via EFA’s Member Directory, and every day legitimate clients who need a freelancer look to our directory to hire one. At the same time, because the directory is open for all potential clients to find freelancers, anyone can contact members from a directory search. If you are the recipient of unsolicited email, we recommend the following:

• Vet those who contact you before you respond.

• If a contact feels uncomfortable for any reason, proceed with extra caution, just as you would in any other public situation.

• Monitor the EFA Discussion List. If the contact is a scammer — and sometimes when they are not — they are likely to be contacting many other EFA members and there will be some alerts on the Discussion List. In fact, if you have direct experience with any contact there is a question about, let your colleagues on the Discussion List know. The Discussion List is the best venue for sharing information. If you do not already subscribe to the Discussion List and would like to, check Yes for that option in your Member Profile. You should receive an email invitation within two business days.

• To reduce the chance of unwanted email contact as a result of your directory listing, see the suggestions in our Member Profile article.