How Moonlight Protects You
Developer vetting: Every developer application is reviewed for skills, experience, and profile completeness. We require links such as GitHub or LinkedIn, examples of past work, and a profile picture.
Validation checks: Before a first job goes live, Moonlight may require additional validation (such as a quick call) to confirm a developer’s identity.
Company verification: Companies must use a valid company email and include a website when creating their profile. This prevents impersonation and builds trust.
On-platform payments: All invoices and payments are processed through Moonlight. This prevents fraud and ensures that funds are handled securely.
Best Practices for Companies
Use your own contract and insurance: Moonlight provides the platform, but you should use your own company–developer contract and maintain appropriate business insurance for your protection.
Be clear in job posts: Specific requirements reduce the chance of mismatched applicants.
Use the messaging system: Keep initial communication inside Moonlight until you’re confident in the developer.
Start with a trial: A short paid trial project is a low-risk way to validate skills and fit.
Limit early access: Only provide the systems and credentials a developer needs to start. Expand access once trust is established.
Red Flags to Watch For
Developers unwilling to use the Moonlight platform for payments.
Requests to move conversations or invoicing off-platform.
Incomplete profiles lacking links to real work or professional networks.
Unusually low hourly rates (below $50 USD/hour), which may indicate inexperience or misrepresentation.
What to Do if You Suspect Fraud
Pause the project: Stop work until the issue is clarified.
Contact Moonlight support: Share details via chat or email so our team can investigate.
Do not pay off-platform: Only approve invoices and make payments through Moonlight.
FAQs
How does Moonlight prevent fraudulent companies from posting jobs?
All company accounts must use a valid company email address and include a website. Additional checks may be required before the first job goes live.
What if a developer asks me to pay them directly?
Do not proceed. All payments must go through Moonlight. Off-platform payments breach the Terms of Service and remove the protections we provide.
What if I’m not sure about a developer?
Start with a short paid trial project. It’s the safest way to confirm skills and working style before committing to a larger engagement.