Short Take: Auctions top list of Internet fraud complaints

Complaints about Internet fraud rose 600 percent in 1998 and auctions generated the most complaints, according to a report from the National Consumers League. Auctions comprised 68 percent of the total frauds reported, up from just 26 percent in 1997. The watchdog group said the majority of fraudulent payments --93 percent--were made by check or money order, and recommended that consumers pay by credit card if possible.

Jan. 2, 2002 4:43 p.m. PT

Complaints about Internet fraud rose 600 percent in 1998 and auctions generated the most complaints, according to a from the National Consumers League. Auctions comprised 68 percent of the total frauds reported, up from just 26 percent in 1997. The watchdog group said the majority of fraudulent payments --93 percent--were made by check or money order, and recommended that consumers pay by credit card if possible.