Use good sense in checking the ratings. A few negatives don't mean the seller is a crook. Look at what the total percentage is, and what the negatives actually say. Some people use the threat of negative feedback to try and extort from the seller after they've won a bid, and some people will complain about anything at all. Whether you're buying antiques, ephemera, gems, jewelry or GI Joe dolls, your best protection is knowing the market.
Most sellers are on the up and up, and online auctions can be a great source of good buys.
Be careful, but don't be paranoid. And if you're looking to safely make money with Internet auctions, check out the How to Make a Living Using Internet Auctions 45-Second Newsletter . Every eBay user is covered, at no additional cost, by the eBay Fraud Protection Program. Click here to visit now. To unsubscribe, simply reply to your email.