What to do if you have problems

Try to work it out directly with the buyer or the auction web site. If that doesn’t work, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission by calling toll-free 1-877-FTC-HELP or visiting the FTC’s web site at www.ftc.gov.

Although the Commission cannot resolve individual problems for consumers, it can act against an individual or company if it sees a pattern of possible law violations. You also may want to contact the California Attorney General’s office or the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office Consumer Fraud Hot Line at 730-2556. 

Author, Barbara Greaver 

Deputy District Attorney, Consumer & Environmental Crime.