How to Spot a Fake Developer or Agency: Red Flags Every Business Owner Should Know

Most developers and agencies are honest, but fake and unreliable ones exist, and they target business owners who are busy or unfamiliar with technology. These red flags help you protect your money and your accounts.

Red flags

• They ask for your passwords early. Real professionals use delegated access. See our guide.
• They contact you out of the blue saying your site has problems.
• They guarantee a number one ranking. No one can promise that.
• The price is far below everyone else’s with no clear explanation.
• They want full payment upfront, especially by gift cards, cryptocurrency or unusual methods.
• No written scope or contract, or vague promises.
• Pressure to decide today.
• No verifiable business details, such as a real website, address or contact methods.
• Stolen portfolios. Images and projects copied from other people’s work.

How to verify a provider

• Look at their website, portfolio and social profiles, and check the work is real.
• Ask for references or examples you can check.
• Search the company name with words like reviews or complaints.
• Have a video call and ask who will do the work.
• Check that emails come from a proper business address, not only a free email account.

Protect yourself in the agreement

• Agree a written scope, timeline and price.
• Pay in stages linked to milestones where possible.
• Confirm you own the website, content and accounts.
• Keep your own admin accounts and give only limited access.

If you think you have been scammed

Change your passwords, review user accounts, contact your bank if you paid and report it. Read our emergency checklist and our guide to common scams.

How we work

We give written quotes, use limited access and never ask for your passwords. You can see how we work on our website development page and message us on WhatsApp using the details on this website.