... is defined by eBay as a sub-category of "Bid Siphoning". The complete text of the rule is:

"Bid Siphoning: Emailing the bidders in a currently open auction, offering similar or the same item at prices below the current bid. This includes auction interference (emailing bidders to warn them away from a seller or item)."

In an email clarification of this rule, Jo @ eBay's Safe Harbor advised me that it is only auction interference if the communication is made with the intent of causing the bidder not to carry out the bid or to prevent a bid from taking place. My purpose in emailing bidders has always been solely to provide information -- it remains that person's option to do as he or she pleases, based on that information. I couldn't care less whether the bidder follows through or not.

Based on this rule, it WOULD be auction interference for Michelle to email the current bidders of Pete's auction and offer her chips at the lesser price. On the other hand, in my opinion, it would NOT be auction interference to email them solely to advise that there are nearly 200 known to exist.

Not having seen the actual email, I offer no opinion on whether or not this was an interference. THIS message is also offered solely to provide information upon which others may act or not as they see fit. <g>

----- jim o\-S (member of the ECPD)