Two New SafeHarbor Programs Announced

In the first edition of eBay Life, we introduced the four primary components of eBay's SafeHarbor program. Since then, two additional programs have been announced which will enhance this already robust program. It's amazing how quickly the SafeHarbor program has evolved! The two programs - insurance for eBay users, and the Verified eBay User program - will provide some great safety benefits for all eBay users.

Coming soon, eBay will offer insurance free of charge to all eBay users in good standing. What is "in good standing"? Well, you must have a non-negative feedback rating at the time of a claim, and the personal information you provide to eBay must be accurate. An industry-leading insurance carrier will underwrite the insurance coverage, and will provide this service exclusively to eBay users. Coverage will be provided for up to $200, and a $25 deductible applies. Certain restrictions apply. These restrictions include, but are not limited to, illegal and infringing items sold on eBay. There are also restrictions on the number of claims a user can submit (these are no different than the restrictions you are probably familiar with in other insurance programs).

With insurance in place, bidders can bid with confidence. Sellers benefit by likely receiving more bids from the increased confidence buyers have in placing a bid.

eBay will also initiate the Verified eBay User program in the coming months. Through this program, users can volunteer information that will be verified by a third party for validation. A verified user will then receive an icon that will follow him or her everywhere on the site. The icon indicates to other eBay users only that this user's information has been "verified." The program should work hand-in-hand with the Feedback Forum. A Verified eBay User icon next to a user says that this user has been positively identified, while the user's feedback profile indicates the user's reputation in the eBay community. For a 6-month introductory period, there will be a $5 charge for participating in this program.

The Verified eBay User program will be especially beneficial to newcomers to eBay. Newcomers can overcome a low, or nonexistent, feedback score by getting verified. Since these users haven't built up feedback, becoming verified will demonstrate to others their willingness to provide accurate information to eBay.

All users can benefit from the Verified eBay User program. Verified users are demonstrating to both bidders and sellers that they are willing to provide information that helps establish proof of identity. This can increase people's confidence in trading with one another.