Safe ShoppingGuide
Shop safely on eBay
eBay is committed to the safety and security of those who buy and sell through its auctions and eBay stores.
At eBay's Security Center you can learn everything you need to know about safe shopping on eBay.
Reputation is everything on eBay, so we encourage you to take the time to review a seller's feedback before you make a purchase. You should also look at the seller's return policy, which is normally described in the listings for each item the seller offers for sale. Top rated sellers have met important criteria that helps ensure your safety as a buyer, but keep in mind that many outstanding sellers may not have the badge (see above) because they deal in small volumes.
All eBay sellers are required to accept PayPal. PayPal is easy to use -- you can use your own credit card through PayPal, which means that your credit card information is never exposed to the seller. If you prefer, you can use your bank account to send an e-check through PayPal to the seller, and your bank information remains secure with payPal. PayPal is strongly committed to protecting buyers, and its policies ensure that you can shop safely.
Some eBay sellers are able to accept credit cards directly. If that is the case, you can expect that your credit card company's buyer protection policies will keep you safe.
Although sellers are not allowed to advertise the fact that they accept checks, money orders, cash, and wire transfers, they are allowed to accept these types of payments. If you prefer to use one of these methods to pay for your purchase, ask the seller if s/he will accept the payment method you propose. Keep in mind that using one of these payment methods gives you no protection. It's always safer to use PayPal or a credit card.
