How to Avoid Scams & Fraud on eBay

Questions to ask yourself before making a bid on eBay or any online auction that reduce your chances of falling victim to scams.

1. Does the seller have any feedback?
   
   If the seller has lots of positive feedback you can be sure they are a legitimate seller and won't simply ripp you off. However be sure to check their negative feedback as well to see what kind of person you are dealing with. Note: In this case you'll want to be looking for feedback as a result of selling an item. Positive feedback for a purchase doesn't help to determine if this guy can be trusted as a seller.
   
   
2. How long is the auction posted?
   
   We have found that those wishing to commit fraud will list items for a short amount of time, often only 1-3 days. This allows him to get his money as soon as possible and reduces his chances for exposure. If this is a short auction it may warrant a bit more scrutiny.
   
   
3. Are there no pictures or is the picture stolen from another auction? Those unscrupulous individuals intent on committing fraud never take their own pictures of items because SUPRISE they don't have any items for sale in the first place! That's not to say that having no pictures is necessarily bad. Just check the seller out a little more closely before you bid. Comparing the auction to the other items on this list is a good way to do that.
   
   
4. Does the item have a good description?
   
   Make sure that the item has an actual description. Does he say how much use the item has had? Does his description match his picture? A description that basically states that it's great is no description at all. Opinions on the TYPE of item are useless unless they are coupled with an accurate description of the item actually being auctioned.
   
   
5. Is the item priced far below fair market value? Does this seller have a large number of items with prices that are well below their normal selling prices?
   
   When a person falsely lists an item for sale he doesn't really care if he gets full price because, again he isn't really selling anything. Low prices don't always mean fraud but drastically low prices warrant a closer look before you bid. Ask the seller about the item in a case like this. The more difficult and technical the question the better. If you don't get a reply it would be wise to pass on this auction.
   
   
6. Is the seller offering unreasonable or unusual features?
   
   Lets face it, the sellers on eBay are generally not just here for the fun of it. They are good people trying to make a living or at the very least enjoying a hobby. Nobody is here to lose money. So when folks offer things like 10 day inspection periods and totally free shipping it warrants a closer look.
   
   
7. Can and does this seller answer questions in a timely, courteous and technically proficient manner?
   
   Asking questions about the condition, finish and functionality is one of the best ways to screen the good sellers from the bad. Most sellers wishing to commit fraud won't bother answering and in that case it may be best to move on. Asking for a serial number (if the item is supposed to have one) is another good way to verify the item is for real. Again the more difficult and technical your questions the better, make sure this seller knows what he is selling.

1. Does the seller have feedback of any kind for selling? Negative feedback for deadbeat bidding could give you a solid clue as to how to treat this seller.
2. Did the auction only last a few days?
3. Were pictures included in the item's listing?
4. Was there a detailed description of the item?
5. Was the price far below fair value?
6. Is the seller offering unusual incentives such as free shipping or an inspection period?
7. Has this seller answered questions about the item in a helpful and timely manner?

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