Why should I use SpyTerra service?
At last, the power and convenience of the Internet has been put to work in the area of security consulting and investigations. SpyTerra enables Consultants to connect directly to Customers and bid on projects.
How do I rate another user?
You are able to rate any Consultant or Customer that you have concluded a project with. To do so, log into your account. Under the 'Main' page on the very bottom you can see a list of the members which you may rate. Click on 'Write Review' to reach the rating page, where you may enter a mark out of 10 plus a comment. Please ensure that your ratings are accurate and report any attempt to improperly influence your rating to our support team from Contact page.
How do I send a message to project's owner?
To send a message to project's owner, log in, click on 'View Message Board' from the relevant project. Once on the message board, click 'Reply', select username you want to contact, then type your message.
What does SpyTerra service cost to use for Consultants?
Bidding on projects is free. Consultants are charged only if their bid is successful and at 5% percent of the agreed fees (minimum $5) meaning you have nothing to lose by bidding on all projects in your areas of expertise and locality.
How will I be selected?
At any time during the bidding process or during the 30 days following the end of bidding, a prospective Customer can choose the Consultant who best meets his needs. Once chosen, you will receive an e-mail asking you to accept the project and committing to the agreed terms.
Won't the cheapest bid always win?
Not at all. As with all areas of commerce, a customer will often "get what you pay for". In addition, SpyTerra provides a ranking system whereby a Consultant can be rated and assessed by his Customer after each project.
How do I receive payment?
The method of payment should be arranged with your Customer and does not have to be conducted via SpyTerra. However, Customer does also have the option to easily pay their Consultant through the site. Each user on SpyTerra maintains a running balance of funds which can be added to using either a credit card, PayPal or WebMoney account. Funds may then be transferred either directly to the account of the chosen Consultant, or via an escrow account which holds the funds securely while the project is completed to both parties satisfaction.
How does 'Escrow' payments work?
By paying all or part of the agreed fees via an escrow account for the Consultant, the money is held securely and independently by SpyTerra until all parties are satisfied that the project has been completed, at that time the Customer releases the funds. Should any dispute or problem arise, either SpyTerra or the Consultant can release the funds back to the Customer, and in the event of a disagreement SpyTerra will mediate. By using escrow, the Consultant knows that funds have been committed for his benefit, but he/she doesn't have access to the money until the completion of the project. So all parties of the agreement can be confident that payment will be made and the project will be completed to everyone's satisfaction. The escrow payment functionality can be accessed via the "Account" section.
Can I contact the Customer directly?
Once bidding has been concluded and you have accepted the project, you will be put in touch with your new client directly. During the bidding, you may use the message board and private messaging function on the site to discuss the project and obtain any further details or clarification that you need. Any attempts to bypass this and allow contact with the Customer directly by posting phone numbers, web site addresses or other contact information may result in the suspension of your account. Please help support the concept behind SpyTerra to ensure it remains a worthwhile and productive venture for all involved.
What if the Buyer doesn't pay? Will I still be charged?
If a project for which you are chosen does not go ahead or if payment is not received, please contact support with the details and we can adjust your account charges accordingly.
How do I pay commissions to SpyTerra?
Commissions are charged to your SpyTerra balance automatically upon your agreement to accept a project for which you have been chosen. If your balance falls below zero, you will be required to bring your balance back to zero or above by making a payment into your account within 60 days. Accounts which maintain a negative balance for more than 60 days will be suspended automatically until payment is made.
