Website Scams & Transparency: A Lesson for Small Businesses and Freelancers
Protect your website like you protect your bank account.
Recently, one of my clients received a phone call from someone claiming to be working on their website. The problem? Neither the client nor I had any idea who this person was.
This situation is a perfect example of why small business owners and freelancers alike need to communicate clearly and stay vigilant about website management.
If you’re a small business owner, you must know who can access your digital assets.
If you’re a freelancer or web manager, you must educate your clients and keep them informed.
Here’s how both sides can work together to avoid confusion, scams, and unnecessary security risks.
For Small Business Owners: Stay Aware & Ask Questions
Small business owners often don’t know the ins and outs of website management, and scammers take advantage of that. Here’s what you should do:
1. Always Verify Before Giving Access
If someone calls or emails claiming to be “working on your site,” verify with your trusted web professional first. Never grant access unless you’re 100% sure who they are.
2. Keep a List of Who Has Access
Make sure you know:
✅ Who has login credentials
✅ What level of access they have (admin, editor, etc.)
✅ When they last made changes to your site
Limiting admin access to only trusted individuals reduces security risks.
I like to keep a note or Google Sheet of access for team members.
3. Be Cautious of Unsolicited Offers
Scammers often pretend to be:
SEO experts claiming they can “rank you #1 on Google”
Website security specialists warning of fake threats
Developers or agencies saying they’re “currently working on your site”
If you didn’t hire them, they have no business contacting you.
4. Keep Open Communication With Your Freelancer
Your website manager should be proactively updating you about:
✔️ Work they’ve done on your site
✔️ Any security concerns
✔️ Who has access to your website
If they aren’t, ask them to start! Transparency is key.
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For Freelancers & Web Managers: Build Trust With Your Clients
As freelancers, it’s easy to assume clients understand how website management works—but most don’t. It’s our job to educate, communicate, and protect them from scams.
Here’s how you can be proactive:
1. Set Expectations From Day One
When you start working with a small business, explain:
✅ What your role is (and what it isn’t)
✅ Who, if anyone, will be added to their website team
✅ How you’ll communicate website updates
Clear expectations prevent misunderstandings down the line.
2. Regularly Update Your Clients
Don’t wait for a problem to occur—keep clients informed with:
📌 A monthly email or call summarizing any changes or updates
📌 Alerts if any security threats or unauthorized access attempts happen
📌 A quick check-in to ensure they don’t fall for scams
Your client should always feel in the loop, even if you’re working behind the scenes.
3. Help Clients Understand Website Security
Many small businesses don’t realize how vulnerable their sites can be. Take a few minutes to:
✔️ Explain the importance of strong passwords
✔️ Recommend two-factor authentication
✔️ Show them how to recognize phishing scams
A little education now can prevent major headaches later.
4. Be the “Go-To” Person for Website-Related Questions
If a client gets an unexpected call or email about their website, they should immediately check with you first. Encourage them to:
📞 Call or message you before taking action
🚨 Forward suspicious emails to you for review
🛑 Never share login info without consulting you
The more they trust you, the less likely they will get tricked by a scammer.
Final Thoughts: Clear Communication Protects Everyone
This recent client situation was a wake-up call—not just for them but also for me as a freelancer. It reinforced how important clear communication and transparency are in client-freelancer relationships.
🔹 If you’re a small business owner: Always check with your web professional before making changes or granting access.
🔹 If you’re a freelancer: Keep your clients informed, educated, and protected from potential scams.
At the end of the day, a well-managed, scam-free website starts with trust and communication.