Auction awareness: Tips to stay safe buying online06 June 2006
Online auction sites such as eBay have experienced a boom in popularity over recent years, with thousands of people in the UK taking advantage of it to bag a bargain.
But as with any activity undertaken online, it is up to the internet user to ensure that adequate precautions have been taken against malicious attack. There have been calls for the operators of sites like eBay to take more action against fraudsters, but as with a physical marketplace, shoppers should be vigilant to protect their wallets.
Head of trust and safety for eBay UK and Ireland Garreth Griffiths told the BBC: "It's rather like a council and a high street.
"We don't own the shops, we're not the police, we do provide the infrastructure, we do have an immigration policy. But there's an element of responsibility for the people walking along the high street."
He pointed out that the company does take measures to improve the site's safety, such as working in close cooperation with the police and offering a free service where users can report fake goods posted for sale on the site.
Despite this it is essential that people looking to buy goods from eBay become familiar with how to spot dodgy deals and how to avoid them.
Tips
If you are planning on purchasing something from eBay there are several things you can do to help ensure you get a good deal.
- Feedback: It is essential that buyers make use of the provision of seller feedback, which indicates the level of satisfaction from other eBay users who have completed transactions with the seller. By checking this and by submitting your own feedback if purchasing something, all eBay users are helping to protect themselves from fraudsters.
- Description: Read carefully the item description offered in order to make an accurate and independent assessment of whether or not the item is good value. It is a good idea to ask questions of the seller prior to agreeing to buy - a legitimate seller with a quality item is more likely to be eager to respond quickly and openly.
- Research: Investigate what the retail price is for the item on sale. If a new item posted on eBay is significantly cheaper than it would be in a store alarm bells should ring regarding its authenticity.
- Payment: Avoid using money transfer services such as Western Union as they are not secure payment methods when dealing with someone you don't know. In addition be wary of fake escrow services or phishing emails that may encourage you to hand over your details - never respond to an unsolicited email that asks for bank details and only use eBay's recommended escrow service.
- Refund: Check what the seller's refund policy is - if it is not detailed in the item description then email to find out.
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