BBB offers advice to shoppers on how to avoid getting ripped off when searching for bargains and hard-to-find items through online auctions.
When bidding online, BBB recommends that shoppers:
Find out how the auction site protects buyers and sellers from fraud. A responsible online auction site will take steps to protect both buyers and sellers from fraud. Find out what actions the auction site will take in your defense if you become a victim of an unscrupulous seller.
Compare the cost of the item elsewhere. Scammers will often price their items lower than the competition in order to lure in buyers. A lowball minimum bid for an item should be considered a red flag.
Research the seller. Online auction sites often provide the opportunity for buyers to rate sellers and provide feedback on the transaction. These reviews are a great way to determine the seller’s track record, but keep in mind that reviews are typically not authenticated and some sellers will pay for flattering reviews in order to mislead buyers.
Ask plenty of questions. When in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions about the item, including how they came to own it, its condition and if you can return it if you’re not satisfied. Also find out whether the cost of shipping is included in the bidding price and, if not, clarify what the added delivery cost will be.
Don’t be lured away from the auction site. In some cases, scammers will try to convince bidders to complete a transaction outside of the auction site, perhaps by telling losing bidders that the seller actually has more of the same item available. Leaving the Web site means you are no longer covered by the protections and guarantees provided by the auction business.
Use a secure form of payment. Use a credit card or a secure payment service, such as PayPal, when purchasing items through an online auction. If the seller insists on using an escrow service, always research that business fully with BBB. Never wire cash payments — such as through MoneyGram or Western Union —to someone you don’t know.
For more advice you can trust on shopping safely online, start with bbb.org.