How to avoid fraud when buying and selling second-hand luxury goods, watches, and collectibles?

You can check the business registration status and scope via the MOEA's Business Registration Inquiry using the shop name or Unified Business Number; shops with physical addresses and public ratings are generally more reliable.

The identification focus differs by category (watches: serial numbers and movements; luxury bags: hardware, stitching, and chips; jade: certificates); for high-value items, it is advisable to have a third-party accredited institution conduct appraisal before transaction.

Avoid transferring money directly to personal accounts; request photos of the actual item and proof of origin; whenever possible, inspect and hand over the item in person, or choose a traceable transaction method that allows for dispute resolution, and keep complete records of conversations and payment flows.

You can dial the 1950 consumer service hotline or file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Committee of the Executive Yuan; if forgery or fraud is involved, you can report to the police, and retain receipts and payment evidence.