TIPS TO AVOID ONLINE AUCTION FRAUD

• Understand as much as possible about how the auction works, what your obligations are as a buyer, and what the seller's obligations are before you bid.
• Find out what actions the website/company takes if a problem occurs and consider insuring the transaction and shipment.
• Learn as much as possible about the seller, especially if the only information you have is an email address. If it is a business, check the Better Business Bureau where the seller/business is located.
• Examine the feedback on the seller.
• Determine what method of payment the seller is asking from the buyer and where he/she is asking to send payment. If a problem occurs with the auction transaction, it could be much more difficult if the seller is located in a country other than your own, because of the difference in laws.
• Ask the seller about when delivery can be expected and, if there is a problem with the merchandise, is it covered by a warranty or can you exchange it.
• Find out if shipping and delivery are included in the auction price or if there are additional costs so there are no unexpected costs incurred.
• Remember - There should be no reason to give out your social security number or driver's license number to the seller.