2 min article

Bid sniping

Waiting until the last few seconds of an auction to make a winning bid is known as bid sniping. This tactic is used to try to prevent other bidders from having a chance to place a higher bid before the auction ends.

Bid sniping—including the use of software that places bids for you—is allowed on eBay, but it doesn’t guarantee you’ll win an auction. Other members may be using the same tactic, may have set up automatic bidding, or may simply react quickly and place a higher bid before the auction ends.

Tip
Instead of bid sniping, set up automatic bidding for listings where you want to maximize your chances of winning.

Automated bid sniping software

Many websites and software packages offer automated bidding based on the end time of an eBay auction. They try to automatically place your bid just before the auction ends, and some try to synchronize with eBay servers to ensure your bid wins.

When you sign up with third-party providers that offer automated bidding, you should make sure they are trustworthy before entrusting them with any personal data, like your eBay password. Remember, you are responsible for any information you give to third-party services.

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