Online auction sites can be really fun – we’ve all seen the ads about Nintendo Switches for 50 cents or Macbook Pros for $5. Let’s be honest, most of these ads are for DealDash while you’re watching football. But they certainly grab your attention, and for anyone with a bit of critical thinking skills, they raise some concerns about risks and bring to mind the too-good-to-be-true wisdom nuggets you got from your grandmother.
But the truth is, these sites are mostly legit – at least DealDash is. They’ve been around for by far the longest of the ‘penny auction’ sites. If you’re not familiar with penny auctions, you purchase bid packages, where each bid will cost you between 5 cents and a dollar. When you buy more, they’re cheaper, of course.
After that, you bid til you win, and then you buy, just like eBay or other traditional sites – but with these, when you lose, you’re out the cost of the bids you’ve made. DealDash at least offers the option to buy the item you were bidding on at full retail price, so you can choose to bid only on items you’d want to buy anyway.
DealDash has stood up to scrutiny in the thirteen years of its existence, earning an A rating with Better Business Bureau and gaining trust through a robust customer service approach, with a team ready to answer any questions your suspicious uncle would have about them. So if you want to give penny auctions a shot, this is the place to do it.
But as with any e-commerce platform, it’s always wise to follow certain safety precautions.
Here are some tips for staying safe on DealDash and other similar online auction sites!
Research the Platform
Before diving into bidding, take the time to research the auction site thoroughly. Check for user reviews, ratings, and any complaints filed against the platform. Ensure that the site has robust security measures in place to protect users’ personal and financial information.
Understand the Rules
Familiarize yourself with the rules, bidding system, and payment methods of the platform. Read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid any misunderstandings or unexpected charges.
Protect Your Personal Information
Be cautious about sharing sensitive personal information on auction sites. DealDash, like other reputable platforms, uses encryption to protect your data, but be wary of sharing information such as your full address or financial details in public forums or messages.
Stick to Your Budget
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of bidding, but just like when you’re winning big at the blackjack table, it’s crucial to stick to the budget you made before you sat down at the table.
Have a good understanding of the total cost of what you’re bidding on, including the bidding fees, and make sure you don’t overspend on something just to get that thrill of victory. We’ve all done this in some version or another, but be aware and be cautious of the adrenaline that comes when you’re bidding against another human being.
Be Patient
Patience is key when bidding on auction sites like DealDash. Take your time to observe bidding patterns, get to know the people you’re bidding against, and try to use predictions of their behavior to set your strategy.
Be assured that they’ll do the same for you. Understand that you’re going to lose a few times, maybe a lot of times, especially when you’re starting. But as with any skill, you’ll become more successful with practice.
Read the Fine Print
Before ever making a bid, thoroughly read the product descriptions, shipping terms, return policies, and warranty information. Understanding these details can prevent misunderstandings and disappointment upon receiving the item.
Use Secure Payment Methods
Dealdash and the other more reputable sites are going to offer you secure payment options, but make sure you’re using trusted payment methods, and that you’re not sharing any of your financial information through channels that may be compromised or insecure.
Remember, DealDash and other sites like it are designed to make shopping fun and even a little addictive. To stay safe and disciplined requires some vigilance and wise decision-making. But stick with these tips, develop your skills, and you’ll be able to enjoy the rush of winning those bid items while staying safe and secure.
