Western Union cares about consumers...

That's why we don't recommend that you use a money transfer service to pay for online auction purchases. Money transfer services are fast, easy, and convenient ways to send funds to people you know. They are not designated to be a payment vehicle when doing business with a stranger.

Be cautious if a seller tells you that he or she will only accept money transfer as a payment method. Most legitimate sellers will accept more than one form of payment. Be suspicious if a seller tells you how to "safeguard" your purchase by putting a money transfer transaction in the name of a friend or loved one, or how to establish a "test question." These actions will not protect you from a fraudulent seller.

Remember, however, that Western Union never acts as a guarantor of an auction buyer or seller's performance.

Western Union urges you to protect yourself from consumer fraud. We care about you and know you work hard for your money. That's why we're working to educate consumers about this important issue.