"I just found an original copy of Disney's 'Song of the South' for an amazing price of $7.99 plus shipping". You read the auction and make a mental list: New in package? Check. Ships to my country? Check. What could possibly go wrong?
I recently purchased an iPod Classic 80 GB on Ebay. I love it. It has become my new obssession. However, if I had seen this iPod for $49.99 plus shipping, I wouldn't have even given it a second chance. Why not? Because it would have been counterfeit or stolen - or both!
How do you spot authentic, original, factory made or licensed merchandise? Do your homework. Here's a quick checklist:
- Check similar retail web sites to get an idea what the items sells for in retail shops
- Check the seller's feedback rating and reputation
- Read the entire listing, even the fine print
- Where is it coming from? Are you buying a new cell phone from Timbuktu?
- Inspect the pictures and pay close attention to the packaging. Typos give a lot of inormation away
- DO THE MATH - Is someone really going to sell you a brand new $250 iPod for $49.99?
When in doubt, pass on the deal. Don't get me wrong. There are some fantastic deals to be had on Ebay, and believe me, I search sometimes for days until I find "the best deal". But if something sounds just too good to be true, it probably is. Let someone else buy it and sleep better at night.

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