Ask Do freelance platforms have rules about how you communicate with clients outside the platform chat?

[Brendan]

This is a question that does not get enough attention, yet it matters a lot for how you manage client relationships. Many platforms require that all work-related communication stays within their messaging system so there is a proper record of agreements. Sharing personal contact details too early can actually violate terms of service, even if both sides agree to it. Do you always keep conversations inside the platform, or do you sometimes switch to email or messaging apps?