Four Tips to Avoid Phishers

A few months ago, Ylitalo wasn't able to log in to his account. "When you're a major seller, that's a little scary," he says. "I contacted eBay through their online support and was immediately called by a safety and security specialist. They had seen suspicious activity and froze our account until they could speak with us. That was the only time we needed their services in two years. I don't want to be in a marketplace where I need remedies and recourse, but rather, a marketplace where I have [the resources] but rarely need to use them."

Some of the specific security resources eBay provides include:

Security & Resolution Center: This is the portal page for reporting any security issue you have on eBay, including an unpaid item or spoof e-mail.

Spoof Tutorial: Are you getting e-mails that look like they're from eBay or PayPal? This tutorial reveals what they are, how to spot them and how to protect yourself.

Trust & Safety Discussion board: Participate in this eBay community forum to learn more about how to buy and sell safely online.

PayPal Security Center: Sign up for free Equifax credit alerts, get an online protection checklist, search a list of government agencies that provide assistance and more.