Online Auctions
According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), online auction disputes constituted 45% of the almost 207,000 complaints recorded last year. Complaints range from non-delivery of purchased items, misrepresentation of goods for sale, and non-payment by purchasers. Additionally, stolen goods are sometimes laundered on online auction sites, and you - as the purchaser - may not find out for weeks or even months.
Although only a small percentage of the total online auction transactions involve fraud, it is a very real risk. There are steps, however, that you can take to reduce the likelyhood of becoming a victim:
The Federal Trade Commission: Internet Auctions: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers
OnGuard: Internet Auctions
Although only a small percentage of the total online auction transactions involve fraud, it is a very real risk. There are steps, however, that you can take to reduce the likelyhood of becoming a victim:
- Carefully read the site's terms, instructions, and fine print
- Find out everything you can about the seller before bidding
- Check the return policy
- Pay by credit card to qualify for consumer protections offered by your card’s financial institution. Research safe payment options (see our Shopping Online page for more information
- Be sure that you are using a secure web site is when entering personal information
- Save all correspondance, receipts and e-mails for every transaction
- Report fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices at www.ftc.gov or call 1.877.FTC.HELP
The Federal Trade Commission: Internet Auctions: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers
OnGuard: Internet Auctions
