Avoid Scams

[myytabc_83]

How can I avoid cheating or scams on eBay? Sometimes I receive fake orders. How can I avoid them???

[dbfolks166mt]

     You have no items listed on this account nor have you sold any so it's hard to look at any of your listings and make recommendations. The only sure way to avoid scams is simply not to sell. Not sure what you mean by "fake orders". A few general guidelines. 

1. Avoid high dollar items and high target items: electronics, cell phones, computers..........

2. Accept returns

3. Avoid messages from buyers asking you to contact them, do all communication through eBay messaging. 

4. Only ship to the address the buyer had associated with the account when you sold the item. 

5. Read through some of the postings on this forum to help you learn to identify scam attempts. 

6. Search the internet for common scam tactics. 

[ckimodog]

@myytabc_83 

There really isn't any way to avoid a scam or scammer, other than simply don't sell on the internet. 

Here are some red flags to watch out for.

1. Buyer asks for your email address, Paypal address-they don't need it.  They need to pay thru eBay payments
2. Buyer sends you a phone number to text/call him/her-Don't do it
3. Buyer asks you to buy gift cards to go with the order-Don't do it
4. Buyer asks you to send the item to a different address after paying-Only ship to the address that is on the eBay invoice
5. Buyer wants you to send the item overnight/express and will pay you a lot extra to do this-No they won't
6. Buyers says that they cannot pay through the eBay website and sends you a link to click on so that the payment will go through-you'll  never be paid
7. Buyer offers more for your item than the price you have it listed for-Forget about it

Since you don't have anything for sale, you'll be safe.  However if you list something for sale I would heed these hints I provided for you.

Good luck

[soh.maryl]

Wish we could tell if you are asking as a potential buyer or potential seller or maybe both.

As a buyer, know about the MBG.  As a seller, that's a good idea also.