Testing the PC before parting with the dosh Even computer professionals fall for some of the common cons in the industry. Arm yourself - learn what the common tricks are. We've reproduced some of the basic tests you can perform quite easily in a few seconds. It is illegal for dealers to pose as private sellers. But let's look at why they do it.
Private ads are free.
That's always a good reason. The second, and quite common reason, is that the PC is stolen. The most important reason is that the dealer doesn't have to give you a VAT receipt if it's a 'private' sale. He'll give you a 'cash' receipt and a lot of promises. If you get the PC home and it stops working he's not legally obliged to sort the problem out.