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.