A question for collectors who use Ebay

magenta321 · #1 01-10-2003, 07:58 AM

Recently I've been watching Ebay for very specific items.

I've been noticing a lot that I am 100% certain are fakes. I even used the "ask seller a question" form to just say something along the lines of "I'm thinking of purchasing this item. Can you guarentee its authenticity". Of course, I have not received a single email back from any of these sellers (and yes, it is many different sellers).

I've turned some in, but, it's time consuming. Their particular auctions have been removed, but, others continue.

I've also just written my first "heads up" type emails informing a current high bidder that they're about to pay $150 for an item that is not authentic.

I really don't know why I care. It's just bugging me that while I'm looking at auctions for myself, I'm finding so many fakes, and seeing so many people get duped.

Has anyone else noticed this trend? How do you handle it? Or do you just ignore it completely, and let the idiots who don't do their research get taken.

Margaret, who doesn't understand why she's compelled to stick up for the little guy, but, strangly is...

*emeleel* · #2 01-10-2003, 05:39 PM

Be very, very careful about writing to people who are bidding on auctions not your own. It's called "auction interference" and you can get in big trouble for it. I know your heart is in the right place, and mine would be too, but if you want to stay in good standing, tread lightly.

Just a friendly little warning....

**briandalsmom**[$] · #3 01-10-2003, 05:47 PM

Also, Ebay won't get involved in deciding if an item is a fake or not. They say that isn't part of their job. I have a fraud complaint against a seller right now who sold me the copied infamous Sweeny Todd VHS and Ebay isn't going to act unless enough people report him.

What they will do, however, is listen if the Copywrite owner contacts them--specifically if the item is being made without their approval, however, there are few companies that take advantage of this.

Search lighters and flasks, they're they worst about stealing bands pictures and adding cheap stickers and selling them for outrageous amounts. Ebay says that it's up to the buyers to prevent fraud, I say they're just interested in the HUGE listing fees these people pay.

Melanie is right about auction interference--you'll be suspended for it, but the seller who's selling fakes won't be touched. It's a imperfect system and Ebay benefits financially from all the fraud.

I wish I had better news, or some useful suggestion, but I struggle from the same thing. One thing I did was I built a web site of the things I collect with information on how to know if you're buying authentic stuff--it's my way of trying to be helpful while not getting suspended by Ebay.

Take care and I'm impressed that you are willing to try to help others out--wish you'd get rewarded instead of suspended though.

Thanks,
Connie

magenta321 · #4 01-10-2003, 06:24 PM

I have written and phoned this particular manufacturer. They do seem to be concerned, because they have a fraud protection hot-line. However, they are slow to act, and Ebay is slow to act, and in the mean time, auctions are closing.

I guess the only thing I can do is warn people. I guess it doesn't matter if you are collecting depression glass, lighters, or designer purses. Know what you are buying. Study the product-line, and know what to look for. I guess that's the only way to know you are not being ripped off.

Sad, however, that unsuspecting consumers are being ripped-off as often as they are.