How to Get Your First Freelance Client in Pakistan After a Scam

That sounds exhausting — stuck between needing work and not knowing who to trust, especially after being scammed. And with a home situation that makes everything heavier, it’s no wonder you feel stuck. Let’s talk about what might actually work for someone in your position.

First, forget about competing on big international platforms like Upwork or Fiverr right now. They are flooded and the scam risk there is real, especially for newcomers. Instead, start with the people who already know you exist. Tell every relative, former classmate, neighbour — even your cousin’s friend who runs a small shop — that you build websites and need a project. Most small businesses in Pakistan still don’t have a proper online presence, and many would rather hire someone they can meet face to face than a stranger on the internet. Offer to build one simple site for a small fee (or even a discounted one) in exchange for a testimonial and permission to show it in your portfolio. That one project becomes proof that you can deliver.

Second, protect yourself from more scams: never pay a platform fee to get a project, never accept an advance payment that you have to return, and never start work without at least 50% upfront — and that money in your account, not just a screenshot. Trust your gut: if something feels off, walk away.

You have a real skill. The first client is the hardest, but one solid project can open doors. If you want to talk through how you’re feeling about the home situation or just need someone to listen, Zara is here any time.