Phones, tablets and other electronics can make great gifts and treats. But be careful when you buy somebody else’s. They’re not always as they seem. Here are our top five tips:
1. Never buy a pre-order item
First, we don’t allow people to list them. So please report anybody trying to sell one. Also, if the seller doesn’t already have the item, you can’t tell if it’s it good enough to buy.
2. Meet the seller face-to-face
That way you can examine the gadget, ask lots of questions and avoid buying something fake, stolen or damaged. If they don’t want to meet, find somebody who does.
3. Ask for a receipt or warranty
If the seller bought the item legitimately, they’ll have these. Or at least be able to tell you why they don’t.
4. Make sure the item works
Check it’s not scratched, broken, locked or hacked.
5. Be careful how you pay
Avoid paying through Western Union, Ukash, MoneyGram, PayPal Family & Friends and PayPal.me. There’s no refund if things go wrong. Normal PayPal is fine though.
One final thing: if the item you’re looking for is hard to find or not yet launched, be extra careful. Fraudsters often target these.
Good luck in your search, and enjoy your new gadget.
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