I recently had a unique experience. Like most freelancers, the majority of my opportunities come from online job sites and classified ads. I browse freelance opportunities once or twice a week, and if I find a potential match, I’ll submit a cover letter and resume.

About two months ago I received a response from a resume I sent three months prior. The payout was good. Still, there was something very vague about the response. The company that responded to my resume functioned as the mediator for a well-known website. And while the company provided their name and contact information, they offered little information about the project.

Before I could receive additional information I had to sign and fax a non-disclosure document and submit tax information. Because I hadn’t received any details about the actual assignment, I hesitated. My initial response was to delete the e-mail and move on. But, I decided to head online and research the hiring company.

Come to found out, the hiring company has been in business for years, and virtually every freelancer who’s worked for the company has been satisfied with the assignment. I decided to give it a chance, and so far, it’s turning into one of my most enjoyable opportunities.

Because business opportunity and freelance scams are widespread on the Internet, it’s natural and perfectly normal to be cautious. Beside, anybody can place an ad on Craigslist or similar websites and call themselves “legitimate.”

Unfortunately, being cautious almost made me miss out on a great gig. But in my own defense, freelancers and telecommuters are trained to keep their guards up. So many people want something for nothing, and several opportunities are too good to be true. Hence, when we come across an opportunity that’s unclear or too vague, we immediately write it off.

But, rather than jump to a conclusion…the wrong conclusion, find out whether an online business or opportunity is legitimate.

• Go to Scam.com and search the business or company name. If others have complained about the business, it’ll likely appear on this website.

• Look for contact information and a physical address. Legitimate businesses normally include their contact information on the website. I’m not referring to a “contact us” form, in which you enter your information and submit your message to an unknown e-mail address. Rather, they’ll include a valid e-mail, physical address, and telephone number.

• Visit forums and blogs. More than likely, other freelancers and telecommuters have had similar dealings with a potentially fraudulent company. Hit the Internet and pose questions on forums, discussion groups, and blog messages.

• Listen to your gut instinct. If you have a bad feeling about a particular opportunity, don’t be afraid to walk away.

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