Last month, 19 individuals were charged with “a multi-million dollar retail theft ring that targeted more than a dozen businesses” in the SW Indiana-SW Kentucky areas. It was reported that there was a “$3 to $4 million increase in retail thefts” by the Evansville Police Department from 2012 to 2013. Several items came up missing at retail stores throughout those areas, and law enforcement began an investigation that involved state and federal officials over the course of 8 months.

These stolen items were being sold on eBay. This is not to say that eBay is a bad place to shop, because it isn’t, but an example of what can go on behind the scenes on Internet shopping sites that a buyer might not give second thought about when looking for a deal.

Another scenario being highlighted is the purchase of imitation items. For instance, if you are a Peyton Manning fan looking to buy an autographed picture online or authentic NFL items from your favorite team, you expect to get the real deal. But you find out, upon delivery, that it is not the ‘real deal.’ If you discover that your purchase isn’t genuine, eBay suggests leaving Buyer feedback; click on the “Report this” link; and “file a claim for buyer protection” with Pay Pal.

Another activity by unscrupulous individuals is called ‘bait and switch.’ If you are selling items on the Internet, beware of individuals telling you the item received was broken or that they no longer want it. To prevent someone from taking advantage of you by returning a defective item in place of the good item that you sold them, keep track of the serial number on the product that you sold them. To ward off frivolous returns, have a return policy that only allows for damaged merchandise to be returned and include a clause that mentions no refunds/exchanges only.

And always watch out for buyers who want to wire you money or buy from you outside of eBay. There are different tactics that opportunists will use to get at your money and to cheat you in the end. For more information on these tactics and how they work, check out this link. EBay also has timely information on how to protect yourself from online opportunists and how to report issues.

Good deals and easy shopping on the Internet can be fun, but like everything else, consumers must use caution and be vigilant when making purchases. Investigate who you are buying from before purchasing. Don’t purchase blindly. Be aware of some of the not-so-great things that go on that can ultimately impact your buying decisions.