If you feel seller is operating his auctions dishonestly, send an email to security staff of auction's web site. They *will* investigate! The sellers account with auction can be cancelled in this situation. You can also file a complaint with Federal Trade Commission [FTC]. You can complete a complaint form at: http://www.ftc.gov

You can protect yourself when bidding at online auctions by using services that have been around on internet for a while--eBay--Yahoo. R-E-A-D site's buyer protection policies. Do they offer insurance and dispute resolution services? Find out what other purchasers are saying about seller. Use a credit card to purchase. You will have more protection and can cancel a transaction up to 30 days after purchase. You may also want to check out an escrow service for expensive items.

Using an escrow service can save you money in long run, especially if you have a large amount of money at stake. Insurance at auctions only go up to a certain amount. An escrow service acts as a middle man. You set-up escrow account and deposit money that you and seller agree on. The escrow service will let seller know that money is there and then item is shipped. If you are satisfied, escrow service releases money to seller. If you aren't satified, let escrow service know and return item to seller. You money will then be returned to you, minus escrow fees for handling transaction.

Using these techniques will help you have more confidence when bidding on merchandise at auctions.

Happy auctioning!!