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I have found that ebay feedback comments are virtually worthless. I've had three experiences on ebay. Two of the sellers were fakes but had sterling feedback and high ratings. Ebay is just too big for the administrators to police.

One seller wanted cash for the item but the phone number and address did not match and the name of the seller was not associated with either.

Another seller offered a YFB 822 for sale and couldn't answer any questions about it. No serial number, no description about the condition, etc. It spooked me off. He also wanted cash. I emailed the winner and advised caution, it did turn out to be a scam.

Ebay responded quickly to concerns about both sellers.

My other experience in ebay was from a tubist in a major orchestra, no problem with that one.

There are escrow services and they aren't all tied to auctions. Of course, they do charge a fee for what they do, but if you're nervous, it might be worth the peace of mind.

You could always try an escrow service.

Regarding the "all online transactions are a risk" comment, I would say that the risk is trivial when dealing directly with reputable online merchants such as Amazon, Newegg, Bestbuy, etc.

Given the sheer number of successful transactions those companies process every day, why would you feel uncomfortable? I'm no expert in the matter, but considering the popularity of online banking and commerce I'd say things are pretty safe when you use common sense.

cyras21 wrote:I'm not referring to Ebay. Just private transactions between 2 individuals. I thought about having a drivers license showing the current address fax but anyone can fake that. I guess the only safe way to go is a person to person trade. Good thing airfare is cheap.

Do be Very careful even with person to person transactions with someone you know nothing about. There was a family in a neighboring town who were beaten severely and had their cash stolen when meeting with a "seller" of a high value item. The same goes for being the seller too. Carrying cash for large purchases is unsafe but even Cashiers checks can be forged so they are not a "safe" form of payment for a seller to receive in a person to person transaction. It is hard to know what to do these days except getting to know who you are dealing with as best possible.

I usually use PayPal when buying and selling and have never had a problem; I have used it for about 5 years.

I buy and sell on the on-line auctions and have not had a bad experience in three years... Knock on wood!!

Why?... because I have made it a point to contact sellers and buyers directly before any money actually changes hands. I have rejected sellers not only because of their feedback but because of their attitudes when I contact them.

The buyer is not the only person at risk. There are a lot of mean, nasty, and just plain lazy folks out there that will send you a bogus cashier's check in the blink of an eye. I will not take a cashier's check nor will I use any form of cash transfer other than PayPal. I only accept cash if someone picks up something in person.

Make it a point to know exactly who you are dealing with... both as a seller AND a buyer. Don't get excited if the seller does not know anything about tubas 'cause lots of them are just antique and junk dealers. Pick up the phone and give them a call. If they can't or won't provide basic information just walk away... even if it's a $100 Meinl-Weston!