Over the years online shopping has basically become second nature to the majority of the population. However, I still hear my fair share of horror stories involved with online purchases, especially when it comes to electronics. This is rather surprising, considering how far ecommerce has come, but you still need to use a certain level of caution.
Generally it is very safe and secure to buy from the big name companies on the internet, for example: staples, amazon.com, and walmart etc. However, when you start to look for the places with the lowest prices, such as eBay and craigslist, that is when you start having to really use your head, and use caution at all times (even more so with electronics).
Since craigslist is quite a bit different than eBay, and generally does not have many electronics listed on it, we will just give advice for eBay. So with that said, when using eBay, the first (and probably most important) thing to look for, is the user feedback rating, which is prominently displayed at the top right side of the auction page(s). basically if they do not have 99% positive feedback or more, then move on, as it is not worth the risk. It really is that simple.
Another important thing to consider when buying on eBay, is the return policy, which is always listed in the auction details. Certain items, such as the Chinese made electric airsoft rifles, for example, have a really high defect rate, so knowing the return policy BEFORE you buy is highly recommended. Also, look for the item location in the top right of the auction screen; this will tell you where the item is being shipped from, which determines how fast you will get it.
Lastly, be sure to fully read an auction description before you make a purchase. Unfortunately eBay is rather notorious for having sellers that use somewhat (or sometimes downright) misleading auction titles, especially when it comes to electronics. Basically just be sure that there are no hidden surprises buried within the details of an auction description (especially the longer ones). For example, look for defects or flaws in a product, which is rarely ever mentioned in the auction title. In other words, it is just a matter of common sense, and reading the fine print; if you follow this simple rule, you will be safe 99% of the time or more.
Generally it is very safe and secure to buy from the big name companies on the internet, for example: staples, amazon.com, and walmart etc. However, when you start to look for the places with the lowest prices, such as eBay and craigslist, that is when you start having to really use your head, and use caution at all times (even more so with electronics).
Since craigslist is quite a bit different than eBay, and generally does not have many electronics listed on it, we will just give advice for eBay. So with that said, when using eBay, the first (and probably most important) thing to look for, is the user feedback rating, which is prominently displayed at the top right side of the auction page(s). basically if they do not have 99% positive feedback or more, then move on, as it is not worth the risk. It really is that simple.
Another important thing to consider when buying on eBay, is the return policy, which is always listed in the auction details. Certain items, such as the Chinese made electric airsoft rifles, for example, have a really high defect rate, so knowing the return policy BEFORE you buy is highly recommended. Also, look for the item location in the top right of the auction screen; this will tell you where the item is being shipped from, which determines how fast you will get it.
Lastly, be sure to fully read an auction description before you make a purchase. Unfortunately eBay is rather notorious for having sellers that use somewhat (or sometimes downright) misleading auction titles, especially when it comes to electronics. Basically just be sure that there are no hidden surprises buried within the details of an auction description (especially the longer ones). For example, look for defects or flaws in a product, which is rarely ever mentioned in the auction title. In other words, it is just a matter of common sense, and reading the fine print; if you follow this simple rule, you will be safe 99% of the time or more.
About the Author:
This article was written by online shopping veteran, William Elmiric, who has been securely shopping on the internet for well over a decade now. When it comes to buying electronics from eBay, follow his advice, and you are sure to be safe 99% of the time or more. Just follow his advice outlined in the examples above and you will be safe.
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