I've shopped on Ebay for years and am a very savy shopper. I know the value of things and what the maximum is that I'm willing to pay for an item.
I've gotten some terrific buys on Ebay and have found items that are either no longer available or can't find locally. I've decorated most of my home (knicknacks, books, hard to find CD's) with stuff that I've purchased from them.
Have I gotten ripped off there? Yes, a couple of times and fortunately it wasn't for more a than a few dollars.
Buyers simply have to be careful and not go beyond what they are willing and able to pay.
bump
As it goes in the market place....BUYER BEWARE!
EBAY is an awesome tool, community and market place. I use it weekly and I am aware some sellers can use alis username/accounts to bid on their own items. But again, be prepared to pay what you think it is worth to you, don't get caught in the emotion of it and try and beat someone just for the reason to win and BUYER BEWARE!
It's a free market..nobody is forcing you to bid!
I rarely use eBay, but it's the only way to go for me.