If possible, pay by credit card because you can dispute the charges if the goods are misrepresented or never arrive. Or use an escrow agent, who acts as a go-between to receive the merchandise and forward your payment to the seller. Another option is cash on deli-very. Pay by check made out to the seller, not the post office, so you can stop payment if necessary. Let the auction site know if you have a problem.
Some auction sites investigate problems and abuses.
They may also want to know about sellers who don't deliver or misrepresent their wares. A bad record may result in a seller being barred from using the site again. The National Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America's pioneer consumer organization. NCL's three-pronged approach of research, education and advocacy has made it an effective representative and source of information for consumers and workers. NCL is a private, nonprofit membership organization dedicated to representing consumers on issues of concern.