Unlike buying treasures in the real world, however, online auctions pose some unique risks. To prevent rip-offs, proceed with caution. As with online stores, the exact procedure varies by site, so make sure you understand the site's policy before you begin. In general, to participate, both sellers and buyers must register with the site. Sellers typically pay a flat fee or a percentage of the final sales price to list merchandise.
Buyers pay the sellers directly and also pay the shipping costs.
Of course, as a buyer, you can't actually see what you are bidding on. The best you can hope for is a full description and a photo. You must trust that it's accurate and that you receive your purchase in the stated condition. That's where the potential for fraud is greatest. Typically, auction sites claim no liability, although some do provide limited guarantees.