Ebay feedback question.

[Mr Webname]

I see a lot of negative feedback posts at Ebay, where auctions have gone wrong in at least one persons eyes. What sort of legal accountablility is there for comments left as feedback - I mean if I post as feedback something like "Buyer is retarded, doesn't understand electronics, don't trade with him", what, if any legal ramifications do I open myself up to?

I suppose the same question could be extended to comments made in posts on forums like DNF.

(For the record I'm not planning on posting any questionable comments!)

[mark]

Webname: Not a lawyer, but a layman's opinion is that the truth is usually a good defense to libel.
I doubt that you could prove the buyer is retarded, unless he or she really is; even if so, would you really want to make that claim?
Doesn't understand electronics--I have known people with phd's who couldn't balance a checkbook--book sense but no common sense, etc.
Bottom line, stick to the brief facts only, no editorials recomended and you should be ok.

[Mr Webname]

Thanks and for the record I wasn't planning on calling anyone "retarded", just interested in the legal ramifications if anyone did so.

[mark]

Thanks and for the record I wasn't planning on calling anyone "retarded", just interested in the legal ramifications if anyone did so.

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understand, it was just a theoretical question. one additional comment is that when i am evaluating buying something from someone on ebay and i have no previous experience with them, i will look at not only the comments left about them, but the comments they leave for others and whether or not they keep it professional, etc.

[Flexi Web Host]

as long as your criticism is constructive and not abusive then you will be fine but when it becomes abusive the matter could go further

[freestyler]

I agree as long as its not abusive you will be fine....like using the F word and stuff ebay will ban you for sure.

Buyer doesn't understand electronics, don't trade with him.......... i think will not matter.

[Acro]

There have been several instances where Ebay was sued in order to remove feedback and they were not forced to do so.