Tips for not being scammed?

Any tips for safe trading? Procedure etc, how to do it so you are sure youre not being scammed...well as sure as you can be atleast.

The biggest thing I would say is to use paypal. Leep track of every email or Im that goes on between the two of you. Thats actually what saved me from being scammed this week. A guy on here tried to scam me but I only use paypal and I kaap track of everything said between us both. I got my money back and now he is exposed. There is ALWAYS a little bit of risk when buying stuff on here, and you do have to take these people at thier word most of the time. But just be careful and cover your a*s is the best you can do for yourself.

What was said above is good. Paypal is huge, always make sure the opposite party has a confirmed address and a verified account if you're accepting money from him.

Keep a paper trail - especially with the IFCC newly formed and active. Theft of virtual property can now bring charges and hold up in civil suits because of new legislation under Internet, Mail and Money Fraud. Most retarded scammers think they're untouchable, and that's not the case anymore.

If you get scammed, file a complaint and a report with the IFCC - you can Google their website under .gov domains. They usually contact you quickly, and can put you in touch with state agencies including district attornies.