How I got scammed by my first client (indian)

My first client blocked me after I built his entire app.

3 weeks of work. $100 project. He came in with decent scope, seemed serious, and I was hungry for that first win so I agreed.

Week 1 he promised 50% advance. "Send it across, I'll pay before you start." I followed up. He said funds are tight right now, just start and I'll pay the full amount once it's done. Classic Indian client move and like an idiot, I believed him and kept building.

Week 3, app is done. I send the invoice. He opens it. Goes silent for 2 days. I follow up. Blocked.

No payment. No feedback. No explanation. Just gone.

And honestly the money isn't even the worst part. What actually got me was that I lowballed myself thinking at least I'd walk away with a testimonial. Didn't even get that.

If you've worked with Indian clients you already know the ones who negotiate the hardest at the start are always the ones who disappear at the end.

If you're freelancing and someone is pushing back on an advance , that is your answer. Walk away. No contract, no advance, no work. Simple as that.

Lesson learned the hard way. Never again.