Freelancers with foreign clients, what is the usual process before starting work?

Hi everyone, I just want to ask for advice from people who have experience working with foreign clients as freelancers.

What is the usual process before accepting a project or starting the work?

I’m asking because I want to understand what is considered normal and professional, and what should be considered a red flag. I’m trying to avoid situations where a client asks you to start working right away, then after you submit the output, they disappear, ghost you, or refuse to pay.

For context, I’m still learning how freelancing with foreign clients usually works, so I’d appreciate insights on:

• What steps should happen before starting the work?
• What are common scam signs?
• What payment platforms or setup do you usually use?
• How do you protect yourself from non-paying clients?

Any advice from experienced freelancers would be appreciated. Thank you!