shoelabworldMany hard-to-resist deals are found all over the web. Sites like eBay are one of the best marketplaces where people sell their most valued items at competing prices. You’ll find new or used items there in conditions that are unbelievably incredible. So if a woman in New York decided that she’s tired of her Gucci purse, she might choose to let it go for a knock-off price of $100! Now, who wouldn’t want to snag that?
Still, there is a dark truth about eBay’s booming business. Crooks like to take advantage of unwitting buyers in the effort of swindling their money. Counterfeits are sold with the idea that they’re authentic items. Things like watches, shoes, scarves and handbags are commonly found there. So how can you protect yourself from these bad purchases?
Look at the Seller’s Feedback
eBay is big on their review system. You’ll know a lot about a seller when other buyers rate them. Some red flags to note are those with the few reviews and people whose feedback are 90% or less.
Request for Receipts and Tags
Individual users may include authenticity cards, receipts, tags and logos in their listing. If these are not included, kindly ask for them. This may be difficult to request from wholesalers, but vendors with flexible return policy make it easy for you send the items back if it is a fake.
Too Good to be True Items
One thing to remember is that if it’s too good to be true, you’re probably looking at a counterfeit. You can’t get a Louis Vuitton handbag for $100 or a Rolex for less than $1,000. When you’re on eBay, have an open mind; pay for the fair market price.
Compare eBay Prices
Unless you’re looking for an extremely rare collectible, chances are you’ll find a similar item from another listing. Compare all entries from photos to the product descriptions. If you’re looking for a Michael Kors bag and someone is selling it for $100, but other listings are marking it at $250, it’s most likely a counterfeit.