Departments
Community Services
Consumer Protection
Consumer Tips
INTERNET AUCTIONS
- Internet fraud has skyrocketed
- The safest way to buy something online is through the use of
a credit card
- Many credit card companies have special online credit cards which
you can use that have the same protections as regular credit cards
- Know who your are dealing with, and what the product is
- Be very cautious when dealing with sellers in other countries.
Limitations because of distance and legal systems can make resolution
impossible
- Always check the feedback pages on an auction site before buying
or selling
- Using an escrow agent is a great way to protect yourself, and
the cost is marginal for the peace of mind
- Prosecution on cases of Internet fraud is extremely difficult
- Many auction sites have a complaint department set up to deal
with problems
TO REPORT ONLINE FRAUD CALL (800) 876-7060
OR FILE ONLINE AT WWW.FRAUD.ORG
This is a clearinghouse that will send your complaint to the appropriate
authorities.
Department of Consumer Protection /
Weights
and Measures
Michael D. Bannon
Director
50 North Main Street
Doylestown, PA 18901
Phone: 215-348-7442
Fax: 215-348-4570
Canny Consumer Hotline 1-800-942-2669