[weavorateam]

Unless I am mistaken, it is not obligatory (at least on oDesk) to track time using their "spy" software. Instead you can report offline hours if you have previously agreed with the client.

[john_horton]

That's correct - when the client makes a hire, she can decide whether or not to allow offline hours.

[RougeFemme]

It's not required on Elance, either, thankfully.