Having recently been burned by a scam seller, I have some advice for other naive eBayers out there so they don't get taken like I did.

1. Look over the item description CAREFULLY. Examine all pics of the item against the new item, if you can find photos of it. Some unscrupulous sellers have carefully positioned their items to look like the real thing. Real items such as sunglasses, handbags and other accessory items have specific markings and a legit seller will take detailed photos of these markings. Ask for other pictures of the item from all angles. A legitimate seller will try to accommodate a serious buyer.

2. ALWAYS ASK QUESTIONS! If you ask questions about an item and the seller either does not answer your questions or gives vague answers, PASS ON THE ITEM. I recently bought an item, tried to contact the seller numerous times, with no answer. Tried their phone number, the number was fake. If you have a non-responsive seller, DO NOT BUY.

3. Pay attention to feedback. If the feedback is positive, but is backhandedly negative such as "item took a while to arrive, but looks great" there's an issue there. Most sellers are eager to please their customers by getting the items out speedily and making the shipping process smooth. Shady sellers often prolong the shipping of the item. Also, try to stay away from users who set their feedback as PRIVATE. What are they trying to hide?