eBay Security Tips

  • Jul 23, 2007

Consumer Reports offers tips to protect from traps and pitfalls of online auction sites like eBay.

Check Feedback. The most important step buyers told CR was to check feedback. More experienced buyers did extra research requesting more photos from the seller. eBay recommends trading with members that have a high positive feedback score. Look for at least 99 percent.

Avoid Shady Sellers. Go beyond the screen name to verify seller's identity by e-mail and confirm address and phone number. Before bidding buyers should determine shipping cost, understand auction terms and return policy, and check whether the seller has changed identities. Only 13 percent of survey respondents said they always take this precaution.

Comparison Shop and Read Between the Lines. To determine if a new item is a real bargain, consult Web sites such as Shopzilla and Yahoo Shopping. Older collectables generally have at least one reputable source for information. If needed, consult an appraiser. Insist that the seller provide proof of authenticity and condition. Some sellers might dangle words such as "genuine," but look for terms such as "inspired by," indicating the product is a knockoff.

Bid Smart. Establish a top price and stick to it. Survey respondents cautioned about overbidding, reasoning that the object of their affection would probably turn up again. Proxy bidding can make it easier to stick to a budget. It may have helped the 40 percent of respondents who said they lost track of an auction deadline during the past year.

Keep Your Reputation. A bid is binding. Retractions by a buyer or seller are allowed only under special circumstances. Those who back out of deal could have their accounts suspended and their feedback reputation damaged.

Don't Bite on Phishing Schemes. E-mail messages that appear to be from eBay and ask for sensitive information are designed to hack into your account. Don't click on any link and don't respond. eBay never makes such e-mail requests and the site provides Account Guard downloads to help folks avoid getting stung.

Featured

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.