Seeing Fakes, Angry Traders Confront EBay

Seeing Fakes, Angry Traders Confront EBay - New York Times:

"The Tiffany lawsuit, in addition to accusing eBay of facilitating counterfeiting, also contends that it 'charges hundreds of thousands of dollars in fees' for counterfeit sales."

Tiffany is only one example the above article references with respect to those being duped by eBay sellers. The problem here, however, cannot be dealt with in a normal sense, given eBay really has no control over what is and what is not listed. The business model is simple: create an electronic marketplace where buyers and sellers can come together and engage in mutually beneficial transactions. The key word here being, "electronic." The fact of the matter is, not only does eBay have any control over its listings, it has absolutely no feasible way of policing its listings either.

The quoted portion above, however, cites a very important point: eBay is collecting inumerous fees on these illegitimate postings. Now, it seems to me that in order to remain a positive reputation, eBay might consider taking an interest; otherwise, its users will lose faith in the service. But the bottom line here is simple: buyer beware. Choosing eBay over a brick and morter store is an absolute risk, and you must be ready to face the consequences.

I've bought DVD's on there and gotten pirated movies from China. I bought a rare CD, only to find it was a bootleg copy. Now, these two items I received my money back (less shipping) fairly easily--both claims with PayPal. However, I also got hosed on a fake Versace wallet that I did not receive my money back on. But you know what? If something seems too-good-to-be-true, it probably is. Duh! Right? As a buyer, I have to remain very skeptical of what I choose to purchase on eBay. Personally, I prefer to buy things in stores and if I'm only going to save $20 or so, I'll usually eat it and buy it locally. But really, that's generally because I find it more convenient. If I buy something on eBay I have to worry about where they will ship it and whether I will actually receive it, given I move around all the time. I have to worry about when the package will come; if I'll have to sign for it; etc.

So anyway, just watch yourself when you're bidding on eBay items, and you should be alright. Be especially leary of artwork, jewlery and artifacts. And remember: glowing positive feedback can easily be faked. But none of this is eBay's problem, necessarily. They just make the ability for online transactions possible.