Jururawat Masyarakat

Thinking of bidding in an online auction, or selling some of your stuff? Internet auctions are a great resource for shoppers and sellers, but you need to be aware of the issues.

Evaluate how soon you need to receive the item you're bidding on, and whether you can tolerate it being delivered late, or even not delivered. Many complaints about Internet auctions fraud involve late shipments, no shipments, or shipments of products that aren't the same quality as advertised.

Whether you're a buyer or a seller, read each auction site's Terms of Use before using it for the first time — sites may charge fees, follow different rules, or offer different protections.

Carefully consider your method of payment. Learn what recourse you have if something goes wrong. Don't send cash, and don't use a money transfer service.

Don't reply to "phishing" emails: messages that look like they've been sent by an auction website or payment service and ask for your password or other personal information.

Know who you're dealing with. Avoid doing business with sellers you can't identify, especially those who try to lure you off the auction site with promises of a better deal. Confirm the seller's telephone number in case you have questions or problems.

Know exactly what you're bidding on. Read and print a copy of the seller's description of the product closely, especially the fine print. Save copies of all emails you send and receive from the auction site or seller.