Security Centre
Buy with confidence
When you shop on eBay.com.au you can help make your experience a safer, more positive one by using a little common sense and a few simple precautions.
Remember: if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. 
Carefully read the item description
This should give you a good understanding of what’s on offer. In particular check the picture, postage details and buyer requirements. If you have any questions, email the seller.
Get to know your seller
It’s important to get to know the seller’s reputation before you buy or bid on an item. You can do this by simply reviewing their feedback including detailed seller ratings. If you have any questions just click on the"Ask seller a question" link on each page.
On eBay Motors, car dealers who use Classified Ads do not get a feedback score; but you will see a car dealer icon next to their ID which assures you they are genuine.
Pay safely
The large majority of items listed for sale on eBay.com.au are now required to offer PayPal as one of the payment methods. PayPal is a safe and convenient way to pay for your item. In fact, in 2007 those who paid with PayPal on eBay.com.au were almost four times less likely to have a dispute than those who paid by bank deposit. Other eBay recommended payment methods include:
- Pay on pick up (ie paid for when picking up the item)
- Visa/MasterCard (with transactions processed by PayPal)
NEVER pay with Western Union
Instant money transfer services like MoneyGram and Western Union are not safe when purchasing from strangers and are prohibited on eBay. Criminals prefer these payment methods and may try to convince you to pay this way.
Protect yourself
It’s important to remember that while various payment methods are allowed on eBay.com.au, PayPal is the only payment method that offers up to $20,000 in Buyer Protection. This means if you receive an item that is significantly different to its description or you don’t receive it at all, you may be eligible for free PayPal Buyer Protection.*
If purchasing a vehicle on eBay.com.au you can also benefit from free Vehicle Purchase Protection# which is available for eligible cars listed on eBay Motors.
Sign-up to PayPal now to shop with confidence.
