Also, if it's safe, how do I go about buying on e-bay? I need pointers, never done it before.
2007-03-06 10:15:54 · 9 answers · asked by froggie45 1 in Business & Finance ➔ Credit
A gift card would be safer then using your own credit card...
2007-03-06 10:19:58 · answer #1 · answered by Stranger in a Strangeland 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋
eBay is the wild west of buying and selling. Any auction can be subject to fraud, whether it's books, cars, whatever.
When I buy, I look for the following:
1. Look at the feedback. Not only are you looking for the percentage of positive feedback, but you also should look at the overall number and how far back those reviews go. If too many reviews of all a sudden, could indicate someone just trying to pump up their stats prior to starting to commit frauds.
2. Read the descriptions and terms like a lawyer. All too often the descriptions bury important info, like the product is damaged, or that you are buying the right to purchase that product cheaper somewhere else, etc. I heard one time of someone who bought 2 cell phones, only to find out they actually bought pictures of cellphones.
3. Make sure shipping is fair. All too often auctions are cheap, and then you find out you're paying $29.95 for shipping a light object.
4. Open up a paypal account, and link it to your credit card. Pay using paypal. Do not respond to any emails telling you to click a link for payment. Just click on the actual auction when done and then click the pay option.
5. Do not rely on eBay or PayPal Guarantees against fraud protection. I've been the victim of fraud twice, both for under $25, and their protection doesn't even start until you hit $25. They are notorious for putting you through the hoops trying to get your money back.
Bottom line - You are on your own, so if something doesn't feel right, don't bid on it!
2007-03-06 10:27:33 · answer #2 · answered by Uncle Pennybags 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
It's safe, you need a PayPal account. You can use a credit card through PayPal, they protect your identity and account information. You can also connect your PayPal account with a bank account and have the money debited from your bank account, or keep a balance in PayPal.
You do not need a gift card, that is overly paranoid. Millions of people buy and sell on eBay using PayPal every day.
2007-03-06 10:20:16 · answer #3 · answered by Josh 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Its probably the safest site on the internet to use a credit card (transaction wise) going through Paypal (which is owned by eBay)
I would also check out the site textbook411.com , they compare the prices of any book at all the top online bookstores (including eBay) so you always get the best deal!!
http://www.textbook411.com
2007-03-08 11:47:37 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
it is safe to use ebay, i do it all the time you can set up a pay pal acc if you are uncomfortable with using your credit card i dont think denity theft is that common of ebay, i wouldnt find it necessary to buy s gift credit card if you dont want to use your card just get paypal, fast and easy hope this helps!! goodluck!
2007-03-06 10:22:17 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have personally purchased many books and other products online and on eBay. I’ve never had a problem with identity theft.
Just make sure if you are purchasing from an eBay auction that the person has a good eBay rating.
2007-03-06 12:20:12 · answer #6 · answered by tek77 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have bought many things on ebay using credit cards and have had no problems. If you check around the ebay website it will walk you through sign up, its very easy. I would also sign up for a paypal account right away, also quick and easy.
2007-03-06 10:24:52 · answer #7 · answered by yg 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I buy stuff off eBay all the time and have never had trouble. Set up your account then go into my eBay and down the left hand side column you will see the pay pal link. Click on it and sign up. You just need your bank account info and an e mail address. I have only used pay pal once. I just pay directly into their bank account.
2007-03-06 10:25:26 · answer #8 · answered by biancajh 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i think, you have nothing to worry about. You can pay safely with your credit card through pay pal... they never reveal your credit card info to the seller... all the seller gets is your contact information so they can send you the item....
besides, i don't think that having your contact info and credit card number is enough to steal your identiy.
2007-03-06 10:21:05 · answer #9 · answered by Zlavzilla 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋