Is there a way to establish some form of security in the negotiation process?
The platform is concerning because the payment is not guaranteed, and not secure.
In terms of legitimacy, how are freelancers protected from scams?
Can a freelancers research the employer or company offering the job?
Ensure that you’re comfortable with the terms and conditions before starting any freelance work.
If the website ever gained traction, I could enhance it, but it never gained traffic, and I invested a lot of money and time into it.
The best way to protect yourself is to ask questions and create Milestones! Do not complete the project fully, deliver it in Parts. For example, only finish 20% of it, then as for 20% payment.