Then you are your own worst enemy. I have a website and I can show you work I've done. Doesn't mean I won't scam you though. I could have worked on those projects, and ripped off my clients (in theory of course).
If you can't be bothered to check references just because most of the time people AREN'T scammers, then it's your own fault you got scammed. Maybe people will see your post and try to scam you even more now, knowing that you are so naive