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Upwork’s time tracker is an essential tool for freelancers working on hourly projects. It helps ensure that clients only pay for the actual work performed while providing freelancers with a reliable way to track their time. One of its core features is the ability to take periodic screenshots to verify work activity. But how often does the Upwork time tracker take screenshots, and what else do freelancers and clients need to know?
Understanding Upwork’s Time Tracker
The Upwork time tracker is a desktop application used to log hours for hourly projects. It records work activity by tracking keyboard and mouse movements, as well as taking screenshots at random intervals. These screenshots serve as a visual record of work done, helping clients verify freelancer activity during billed hours.
How Often Are Screenshots Taken?
The Upwork time tracker captures screenshots every 10 minutes on average. However, the screenshots are taken at random intervals within that 10-minute time block, meaning a freelancer won’t know the exact moment a screenshot will be captured. This ensures accountability and reduces the chance of manipulating tracked time.
What Screenshots Capture
Each screenshot includes:
- A snapshot of the freelancer’s screen, showing the work being done
- The current time
- Keyboard and mouse activity levels
These details help clients confirm that freelancers are actively engaged in the project during logged hours.
Manual Time vs. Automatically Tracked Time
Unlike time tracked using the Upwork time tracker, manual time does not include screenshots or activity levels. Some clients allow freelancers to add manual time for flexibility, but as these hours aren’t verified through screenshots, they are not covered by Upwork’s Hourly Protection.
Are Screenshots Editable or Deletable?
Once a screenshot is captured, freelancers can view it in their Upwork work diary. However, they cannot edit it. They do have the option to delete a screenshot, but doing so also deletes the corresponding logged time. This ensures that only verified work is billed.
Privacy and Security Concerns
Some freelancers worry about privacy when using Upwork’s time tracker. Since screenshots are taken at random intervals, there is always a possibility that sensitive or personal information may be captured. To mitigate this, freelancers should:
- Limit non-work activities while tracking time
- Use a separate workspace for freelancing
- Regularly check their work diary to ensure no private data is inadvertently captured
How Clients Can Use Screenshots
Clients can review screenshots in the work diary to verify freelancer activity. If a client notices inactivity or unrelated work, they can address concerns directly with the freelancer. However, it is essential for clients to focus on results rather than micromanaging every captured image.
Best Practices for Freelancers
To maintain professionalism and ensure accurate billing, freelancers should:
- Avoid switching between unrelated tasks while tracking time
- Regularly review their work diary to ensure all screenshots align with their work
- Communicate with clients if any issues arise with tracked time
By following these best practices, freelancers can maximize trust and transparency in their working relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the time tracker take screenshots more frequently?
No, the Upwork time tracker takes screenshots only once per 10-minute segment and at a random moment within that timeframe.
Can clients see real-time screenshots?
No, clients can only see screenshots after they have been recorded in the freelancer’s work diary.
What if a freelancer steps away while tracking time?
If a freelancer is inactive (no mouse or keyboard movement is detected), the time tracker may stop recording time, and the screenshot will reflect the inactivity.
Are deleted screenshots recoverable?
No, once a freelancer deletes a screenshot, the corresponding logged time is also removed, and it cannot be recovered.
Can multiple screens be captured?
Yes, if a freelancer is using multiple monitors, the Upwork time tracker will capture screenshots of all active screens.
The Upwork time tracker is designed to ensure fairness and transparency in freelance work. By understanding how and when screenshots are captured, both freelancers and clients can use the tool effectively to maintain productive and professional relationships.
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