https://www.crunch.co.uk/blog/freela...-marketplaces/
What kind of client uses oDesk, Elance, Guru and Freelancer.com? Typical clients using these services are:
Small businesses with limited funds
Startups with small budgets
Scammers with no intention of paying
SEO practitioners who need “stuff” to fill their “websites”
So while you might find a very rewarding job with a genuine family-run business, you’re going to have to dodge a lot of bullets first.