Protect Yourself from eBay Scams

Unfortunately, eBay is famous for scams and shady transactions. Both buyers and sellers can be swindled, but there are steps you can take to prevent being scammed by a buyer or seller. The key is to take your time and research your trading partner before money or product changes hands.

If you are a buyer, take a few minutes to check out the seller whose product you are interested in. Don’t let price be the only driving factor motivating you to buy from someone. How long has the seller been an eBay member? What is his feedback like? Are the photos of the item clear? Do you understand his policies? Take your time and carefully read the listing before bidding or buying. Click here for more tips on how to avoid being scammed by a seller.

If you are a seller, be proactive in screening out undesirable buyers. State your policies clearly. Set your selling preferences to block buyers with poor trading records. Check out your buyer’s history and feedback. Never, ever ship a product before receiving payment. Always use delivery confirmation so that you can prove that an item has been delivered. Click here for more tips on how to avoid being scammed by buyers.

Both buyers and sellers have recourse if the transaction is not completed properly. Each can file disputes or claims against the other in cases of fraud, missing packages, or unpaid items. Know your rights as a buyer and as a seller. eBay won’t step in to help you unless you know how to initate the process and ask for help. Click here for more information about how to file a dispute on eBay.

[Image Source: Flickr]